Apostille Countries for Legalised Documents

The HCCH 1961 Apostille Convention abolishes the traditional requirement of document legalisation and replaces it with a simpler single Apostille certificate by a Competent Authority in the place where the document originates.In the case of Australia the relevant authority is the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade ( DFAT).

An Apostille confirms the authenticity of the signature, the capacity in which the person signing the document acted and, where appropriate, the identity of the seal or stamp on the document. Many overseas authorities will not accept Australian public documents unless an Apostille has been issued first.

If the document has been notarised the Apostille is confirming the authenticity of the notaries authority, signature and seal.

There are now more than 125 countries that are party to the Apostille Convention. If the country where you will use your document is listed below, it will usually require an Apostille rather than full embassy or consular legalisation.

How to use this Apostille country list

The list below shows the countries that are party to the HCCH 1961 Apostille Convention. The column labelled “EIF” indicates the date on which the Convention entered into force for each country. If a country has signed the Convention but it is not yet in force, the local authority may still require traditional legalisation instead of an Apostille.

This list is published by the Hague Conference on Private International Law and is updated from time to time. It is a useful first step in checking whether your document will need:

• an Apostille certificate from DFAT in Australia
• embassy or consular legalisation for non Apostille countries

Apostille countries

The list below displays the current Apostille Convention countries. You can scroll within the frame to see the full list.

Need help with an Apostille in Sydney

We can prepare your documents, notarise them, and assist with obtaining an Apostille from DFAT. If you are unsure whether your document needs an Apostille or consular legalisation, you can book an online appointment or contact us for personalised guidance.

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