When a document is to be used in another country, it may be necessary to have the document authenticated.  This is known either as an “apostille” or “certificate of authentication.” Examples of documents that are frequently authenticated by the Department of State are birth, marriage, and death certificates.

The Department of State only authenticates public documents issued in New York State which are signed by a New York State official or county clerk.

At this time, New York State Department of State Apostille services may be obtained by the following methods:

• Mail
• Walk-in service (New York City, Albany, Binghamton, Buffalo, and Utica only)

NOTE: Customers are allowed to drop off Apostille requests at our Albany and New York City locations only. Drop off requests will not be treated as a priority and will be processed according to receipt date. Once completed, the documents will be returned in the return envelope provided by the customer or by first class mail. Please read the following instructions regarding the Apostille process. If you have questions, please contact us at: 518-474-4429.