Apostille Cost: What You Need to Know About Fees for Apostille Services
When you need to authenticate a public document for international use, one of the most common questions is: How much does an Apostille Cost? Understanding the costs involved in obtaining an apostille can help you budget properly and avoid surprises during the process.
In this guide, we break down the typical fees for apostille services in the United States, factors that influence cost, and how Rais Apostille Services offers affordable and transparent pricing with reliable service.
What Is an Apostille and Why Might It Cost Money?
An apostille is a certificate that verifies the authenticity of a public document, such as a birth certificate, Power of Attorney, or diploma, so it can be recognized in foreign countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention.
The cost associated with getting an apostille covers:
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Government fees charged by Secretary of State offices or the U.S. Department of State
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Service fees if you use an apostille agency or courier service
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Additional fees for expedited processing or document handling
Typical Government Fees for Apostille in the U.S.
Each U.S. state sets its own fees for apostille services on documents issued within the state. Additionally, the U.S. Department of State charges fees for federal documents.
Here’s a general overview:
| Issuing Authority | Typical Apostille Fee |
|---|---|
| State Secretary of State | $5 to $25 per document |
| U.S. Department of State | $20 per apostille (for federal documents) |
Note: Fees are subject to change and vary by state.
Additional Costs to Consider
Service Provider Fees
If you use a professional apostille service like Rais Apostille Services, there will be additional service fees for:
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Document pickup and delivery
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Form preparation and submission
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Expedited processing
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Customer support
Notarization Fees
Some documents require notarization before apostille. Notaries typically charge $5 to $15 per document.
Shipping and Handling
Courier or postal fees vary based on your location and chosen delivery speed.
Factors That Affect Apostille Cost
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Type of Document: Some documents require more processing than others.
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Issuing State: Apostille fees differ from state to state.
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Processing Speed: Expedited services increase the total cost.
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Number of Documents: More documents equal higher fees.
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Need for Notarization or Translation: Additional services increase overall expenses.
How Rais Apostille Services Provides Value
At Rais Apostille Services, we combine competitive pricing with expert service:
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Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
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Clear breakdown of government and service fees upfront
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Flexible options for standard and expedited processing
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Assistance with notarization and certified translation services
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Secure document handling and tracking throughout the process
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much does an apostille typically cost?
Apostille fees typically range from $5 to $25 per document for state-issued documents and $20 for federal documents, plus any additional service fees.
Why do some apostille services charge more?
Extra charges may cover courier fees, form preparation, notarization, expedited processing, or customer support.
Can I get an apostille without using a service?
Yes. You can apply directly to the issuing authority, but this may involve more paperwork and longer processing times.
Are there discounts for multiple documents?
Some service providers offer discounts for multiple documents. Contact Rais Apostille Services to learn about bulk pricing options.
Does Rais Apostille Services provide a price quote before starting?
Yes. We provide free, no-obligation quotes based on your document type and service needs.
Get a Free Apostille Cost Estimate Today
If you want a reliable apostille service with transparent pricing and expert support, Rais Apostille Services is here to help.
