Apostille and Authentication are two processes used to verify the authenticity of documents for overseas use.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is the only body in Australia that is authorised to issue Apostilles and Authentications. DFAT will certify that a signature, stamp or seal on an official Australian public document, NAATI translated document or a document notarised by an Australian Notary Public is genuine by reviewing it against a specimen held on file and provide a certificate in the form of an ''Apostille' or 'Authentication'.
An Apostille certificate is used for certifying documents that are intended for use in countries which are members of the Apostille Convention.
An Authentication certificate is used for certifying documents that are intended for use in countries which are not members of the Apostille Convention
Please refer to the
List of Countries that are members of the Apostille Convention. Each of these countries accept an Apostille.
We recommend confirming with the overseas party requesting the document whether an Apostille or Authentication is required.