Apostille: What It Is,
How It Works and When You Need It

The apostille is one of the most searched terms by those who need to use a document abroad — yet it remains one of the most misunderstood. It is not a decorative stamp, it is not a synonym for generic legalisation, and it is not required in all countries. Here is an operational guide.

What is an apostille

The apostille is a form of international certification introduced by the Hague Convention of 1961. Its purpose is to simplify the recognition of public documents between signatory countries, eliminating the need for further consular legalisations.

In practical terms: a public document (notarial deed, civil registry certificate, court judgment, academic diploma) bearing an apostille is automatically recognised by all countries that have acceded to the Convention, without the holder needing to go through the embassy of the destination country.

Who issues the apostille in Italy

In Italy, the apostille is issued by different authorities depending on the type of document:

• Prefecture: for most administrative documents
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs: for certain specific documents
• Public Prosecutor's Office: for sworn translations and judicial documents, notarial deeds and legal documents

When the apostille is not sufficient

The apostille applies only between countries that have ratified the Hague Convention. For non-member countries — including many African states, some Asian countries and certain Middle Eastern jurisdictions — the process involves full legalisation, which often requires consular legalisation: a longer procedure that requires processing through the Public Prosecutor's Office and subsequently through the embassy or consulate of the destination country.

Apostille and translation: how they combine

The apostille certifies the authenticity of the signature on the original document, not its translation. If the document must be presented in a country that does not use the original language, the sworn translation must itself be apostilled.

We manage the entire process in-house: from the sworn translation to the apostille or consular legalisation, so you do not need to coordinate multiple parties. Contact us with your documentation and we will tell you immediately what is required and how long it will take.