Apostille and legalization are two different procedures used to confirm the authenticity of documents used abroad. While both processes aim to provide legality to documents, they differ in their essence and method of application.

Apostille is an international document confirmation used in countries that are members of the Hague Convention of 1961. This convention standardizes the apostille procedure and allows for authentication documents without the need for additional legalization. Apostille is applied to the original document or its copy and contains certain mandatory elements such as seal, signature, and other details confirming the authenticity of the document.

Legalization, on the other hand, is a procedure used in countries that are not members of the Hague Convention. This process requires additional steps to confirm the authenticity of the document. Usually, legalization involves the validation of the document by the relevant bodies of its own country, after which the document is filed to the consular branch or the embassy of the country in which it will be used. After passing all necessary checks and seals, the document is considered legalized.

Consequently, the difference between apostille and legalization is the way to confirm the authenticity of documents. Apostille is faster and easier if the country is a member of the Hague Convention. Legalization, on the other hand, requires more time and effort, since additional checks and seals are required. The choice between apostille and legalization depends on the country in which you plan to use documents, so it is important to in advance check the requirements of that country to confirm the authenticity of documents.
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Consequently, apostille and legalization are two different procedures used to provide legality of documents abroad. Apostille is a simplified form of legalization used in countries signed by the Hague Convention. Legalization, on its side, requires more complex procedures and can be necessary for non-conventional countries.

If you need assistance with translation and legalization of documents, please contact the Kharkiv Regional Translation Bureau. Our professionals with great experience help you solve all issues related to document design for use abroad. We’re happy to help you provide legality and legality of your documents in any country of the world.