Apostille beantragen

Legalization involves a considerable amount of time and money. It has therefore been declared partially dispensable by international treaties. These conventions include the Convention Abolishing the Requirement of Legalization for Foreign Public Documents (Hague Apostille Convention). Legalization is then replaced by the apostille as proof of authenticity. This is issued by the competent internal authority of the state that issued the document. It is then no longer necessary for the foreign representation in Germany to be involved.

In addition, there are also conventions with the consequence of mutual recognition of the respective documentary system, so that public documents are regarded as authentic without further ado (Belgium, Denmark, France, Greece, Italy; Luxembourg, Austria and Switzerland).

You can find out which countries recognize the "Hague Apostille" here:

• Original certificate
• Passport or other proof of identity (not required for written applications)
• If applicable: written power of attorney for the representative

EUR: 10,00 to 100,00

If possible, find out about the exact procedure and how the fees are to be paid before submitting your application.

• Visit the competent authority. Make an appointment by telephone.
• Identify yourself with your identity card or passport.
• State the country in which you wish to use the certificate.
• Present the original document.
• Pay the fee at the relevant office.

Legalization involves a considerable amount of time and money. It has therefore been declared partially dispensable by international treaties. These conventions include the Convention Abolishing the Requirement of Legalization for Foreign Public Documents (Hague Apostille Convention). Legalization is then replaced by the apostille as proof of authenticity. This is issued by the competent internal authority of the state that issued the document. It is then no longer necessary for the foreign representation in Germany to be involved.

In addition, there are also conventions with the consequence of mutual recognition of the respective documentary system, so that public documents are regarded as authentic without further ado (Belgium, Denmark, France, Greece, Italy; Luxembourg, Austria and Switzerland).

You can find out which countries recognize the "Hague Apostille" here:

Please contact the State Administration Office.