Who Issues Apostilles in Florida?
- Gus Oros
- May 3
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 5
If you need an apostille in Florida, it’s important to know exactly who is authorized to issue it. Many people assume a notary or local office can handle it, but that’s not the case.
Understanding who issues apostilles helps you avoid confusion, delays, and sending your documents to the wrong place.
The Official Authority in Florida
In Florida, apostilles are issued by the Florida Secretary of State.
More specifically, the apostille process is handled through the state office located in Tallahassee.
Only this office has the authority to:
Verify signatures on documents
Confirm notarial certifications
Issue the apostille certificate
No other office or individual can legally issue an apostille in Florida.
What About Notaries?
Notaries play an important role in the process, but they do not issue apostilles.
A Florida notary public can:
Verify your identity
Witness signatures
Notarize documents
However, notarization is just one step. The apostille must still be issued by the state after the document is properly prepared.
Need help making sure your document is ready before it reaches the state? We review everything before submission to help prevent delays and rejections.
Florida Apostille Services
Call/Text: 239-273-4708
How the Apostille Process Works
If you handle the process yourself, the steps typically include:
Preparing your document correctly
Getting it notarized if required
Mailing it to the Florida Secretary of State
Waiting for processing
Receiving it back by mail
This process can take 6 weeks or more, especially if there are errors or missing information.
Why Knowing the Right Office Matters
Many delays happen because people:
Send documents to the wrong place
Assume a notary can issue an apostille
Skip required steps
These mistakes can result in documents being returned and the process starting over.
A Faster and Simpler Option
Instead of handling the process yourself, many clients choose a more efficient approach.
We simplify the process by:
Reviewing your documents before submission
Making sure everything meets state requirements
Handling the process from start to finish
Our typical turnaround time is 10 business days or less, significantly faster than going through the state on your own.
All completed documents are returned using FedEx with a tracking number, so you always know where your documents are.
Need It Done Faster?
If you have a deadline, faster processing options may be available depending on your situation.
For urgent requests, 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