Mobile Notary Services
Apostille Document Authentication
We help Illinois residents authenticate documents for international use. Professional apostille assistance for personal, educational, and business documents throughout Chicagoland.
What Is an Apostille?
An apostille is a form of authentication issued by a government authority that certifies the legitimacy of a document for use in another country. It is recognized by all nations that are members of the Hague Convention of 1961 — over 120 countries worldwide.
In Illinois, apostilles are issued by the Illinois Secretary of State. GJFNOW LLC guides you through the entire process — from notarizing your documents to submitting them for apostille certification — so you don't have to navigate the bureaucracy alone.
Document Types
Documents We Can Help Authenticate
Birth Certificates
Authenticate Illinois-issued birth certificates for use in foreign countries for immigration, citizenship, or marriage purposes.
Death Certificates
Certify death certificates for international estate proceedings, insurance claims, or foreign government requirements.
Marriage Certificates
Authenticate marriage certificates for international residency applications, name changes, or spousal visa processes.
Educational Transcripts & Diplomas
Certify academic credentials for foreign universities, employers, or professional licensing boards abroad.
Corporate & Business Documents
Articles of incorporation, certificates of good standing, powers of attorney, and other business documents for international use.
FBI Background Checks
Authenticate federal background check documents required for foreign employment, residency, or adoption proceedings.
Step by Step
Our Apostille Process
Consultation & Document Review
We review your documents to determine the correct authentication path — whether notarization is required before apostille submission and which Illinois authority must issue the apostille.
Notarization (If Required)
Many documents must be notarized before they can receive an apostille. We notarize your documents at your location, preparing them for the next step.
Secretary of State Submission
We guide you through submitting your documents to the Illinois Secretary of State for apostille issuance, including the correct forms, fees, and processing options.
Authenticated Documents Returned
Once the apostille is affixed by the Secretary of State, your documents are fully authenticated and ready for international use.
International Reach
Commonly Requested Countries
Apostilles are accepted by all 120+ Hague Convention member countries. Common destinations include:
Important to Know
- Apostilles are only valid for documents issued in Illinois. Documents from other states must be apostilled by that state's authority.
- The Illinois Secretary of State processes apostilles — GJFNOW LLC assists with preparation and notarization, not the final government issuance.
- Processing times vary. Expedited options may be available through the Secretary of State's office.
- Some countries require additional steps beyond an apostille (e.g. embassy legalization). We can advise on your specific destination.
- Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies are generally not accepted for apostille.
Ready to Authenticate Your Documents?
Contact us to discuss your apostille needs. We'll walk you through exactly what's required for your destination country.