Can You Apostille a Copy of a Document in Florida?
- Gus Oros
- May 3
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 5
One of the most common questions people ask is whether they can use a copy of a document for an apostille in Florida.
The short answer is: it depends on the type of document.
Using the wrong version is one of the main reasons apostille requests get rejected and delayed.
When You Can Use a Copy
In some cases, a copy of a document can be apostilled — but only if it is properly notarized.
Examples include:
Affidavits
Power of attorney
Authorization letters
Certain business documents
In these situations, the notary certifies the copy or the signature, making the document eligible for apostille.
When You Cannot Use a Copy
Some documents must be original certified copies issued by the state.
These include:
Birth certificates
Marriage certificates
Death certificates
Photocopies or notarized versions of these documents are not accepted and will be rejected.
Need help confirming whether your document is acceptable? We review everything before submission to help prevent delays and rejections.
Florida Apostille Services
Call/Text: 239-273-4708
Why Using the Wrong Document Causes Delays
Submitting the wrong version of a document can lead to:
Rejection by the state
Documents being returned
Restarting the entire process
This can easily turn a simple request into a 6+ week delay.
How to Make Sure Your Document Is Accepted
Before submitting your document, confirm:
Whether a certified copy is required
Whether notarization is needed
That the document is complete and accurate
If you are unsure, it is always better to verify first rather than risk delays.
A Faster and More Reliable Option
Instead of guessing which version of your document is acceptable, many clients choose a safer approach.
We simplify the process by:
Reviewing your documents before submission
Confirming the correct format
Helping prevent common mistakes
Our typical turnaround time is 10 business days or less, much faster than standard state processing.
All completed documents are returned using FedEx with a tracking number, so you can track your documents at every step.
Need It Done Faster?
If you have a deadline, faster processing options may be available depending on your situation.
For urgent cases, contact us directly so we can review your documents and timeline.
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Ready to get started? We help clients across all Florida counties with a faster, more
reliable apostille process.
Upload your documents now or call/text 239-273-4708