Notarization vs. apostille vs. authentication

The notarization is the first step. An apostille or authentication certificate is a separate government step, and neither guarantees acceptance of the document’s contents.

Notarization is the notarial act: the notary verifies identity, witnesses a signature or administers an oath, and completes the requested act for an eligible document.

An apostille or authentication certificate is issued afterward by a government authority when a foreign authority requires it. It certifies the official signature or commission; it does not certify the truth, legal effect, translation, or acceptance of the document.

Reviewed September 16, 2026

Important: Confirm the current paper, ink-signature, authority, form, and fee requirements with the issuing government office before assuming an electronically notarized record can receive an apostille or authentication.

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Related international guides

Official sources

Requirements can change. Confirm current instructions with the relevant authority and the organization receiving your document.

Frequently asked questions

Does NFYB provide apostilles or authentications?

No. NFYB performs the eligible notarial act. An apostille or authentication certificate is issued separately by the appropriate New Jersey or federal authority, depending on the record and the official who signed it.

Does an apostille mean my document is accepted abroad?

No. An apostille certifies that the signing official held office. The receiving authority still decides whether the content, format, translation, and other requirements are satisfied.

Can a remotely notarized document be apostilled?

Do not assume so. Government apostille instructions may require original paper or ink signatures. Confirm the current requirements with the appropriate issuing authority before relying on a remote electronic record.