Frequently Asked questions
What Services do you Provide?
We can arrange a full range of translation, legalization, and notary services. Whether you require an Apostille or Legalization or need your documents translated, we can make the appropriate arrangements for you, anywhere. Our service is a no-brainer. We have wide experience dealing with governments around the world and we can help you navigate the systems hassle-free. Please feel free to contact us to discuss your specific needs.
What is an Apostille and what is it for?
An Apostille is a certificate that authenticates the signature of a public official on a document for use in another country. Apostille is a French word meaning certification. All countries signatories of The Hague Convention can certify and recognize documents under this process. An Apostille certifies the following:
• the authenticity of the signature of the public official who signed the document,
• the capacity in which that public official acted, and
• when appropriate, the identity of the seal or stamp which the document bears, e.g. a notary public seal.
• The Apostille does not validate the contents of the document.
Can I get an Apostille for a U.S. Federal Document?
Yes. At Bajadocs we can help you obtain an Apostille for documents issued in all 50 states and by federal agencies and governments and all countries signatories of the Hague Convention.
I need to get a document Legalization, not an Apostille. Can you help?
Yes, we can assist with document legalization for your documents for documents issued or to be used in countries that are not signatories of the Hague Convention. Please contact us directly so we can draft a plan and a quote specific to your needs.
Can you review my documents before I send it to you or pay for service?
Absolutely. The first step is to share a scanned copy or picture of your document with us, so we can verify document eligibility for Apostille/Legalization. We conduct this assessment at no cost for you.
Not all documents can be apostilled or legalized. We conduct a careful assessment of your document and verify each countries or state/province specific requirements as of types of document, signature and names, dates, etc.
How long does it take to get an Apostille or Legalization?
Processing times varies depending on where your document is from. An average regular processing is 4 weeks. However, some countries or states/provinces are faster and some offer expedited service for an extra fee, which can drastically reduce the processing time.
Can you send my completed certified or translated documents to someone else?
Yes. We can send your document to anyone in the world. Simply give us your instructions in writing when you send the documents to us. Additional shipping fees may apply. We will, of course, send you a copy of the completed document for your records
If you are requesting apostille/legalization/translation for a wedding ceremony in Mexico, we can even deliver the documents directly to your Wedding Planner, or the officiant Registrar Office.
Is My Personal Information Protected?
Yes, we value our clients’ confidentiality. Your information will always be handled in a safe and secure manner.
What languages can you translate from and to?
We can help you translate in 86 languages. Some countries require certified translations conducted and certified by court or government authorized translators. We can assist obtain certified translations through Mexico, Latin America and sworn translations for U.S. federal and state authorities.
Do I need to submit my original documents to you?
Originals are required for Apostille and Legalization services. Translations can be performed with a scanned version of your document.
I do not have an Original of my birth/marriage/divorce or Vital Records. Can you Obtain one for Me?
Yes. We can help you obtain an original or certified copy of your records. Some countries require a notarized consent. We will instruct you accordingly. Please feel free to contact us should you have specific questions about obtaining a document. Document retrieval prices are different and additional to the apostille/legalization/translation fees. A quote would be issued for your specific document retrieval needs and we would be more than happy to present you with an action plan and a quote to help you.