We’ve explored how to apostille documents in Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
Next up is the process for how to apostille a document in Australia!
If you’re looking for information on how to Apostille in Melbourne or looking across the country for an Apostille in Perth, look no further.
From step-by-step instructions to timeline estimates, here’s everything you need to know for the apostille process in Australia.
The Hague Apostille Convention
Australia became a Hague Apostille Convention member in 1995.
Why is this important?
In short, the Hague Apostille simplified the process by which documents could be used abroad.
Today, countries that are members of the Hague Convention are the only ones that can issue an Apostille for a document.
Apostilled documents are requested by many institutions and organizations worldwide.
Which Documents are Valid to Apostille a Document in Australia?
An Apostille certifies a document as valid so that the document can be used abroad.
The process verifies that the signatures on documents from Australian officials are genuine signatures.
You may be wondering what sort of documents would need to be recognized as valid.
If you’re moving abroad for work or university, the receiving authority typically requests a variety of Australian documents.
For example, documents required might include degree copies or transcript copies with an Apostille to verify their legitimacy.
A brief list of documents that may need an apostille include:
- Transcripts
- Birth certificates
- Diplomas
- Background checks
- Marriage certificates
- Notarized documents
- Business documents
- Citizenship certificates
Some documents may simply require a notarization or some can be accepted as-is.
Always be sure to confirm with the receiving authority which documents will require an apostille.
Where in Australia Can You Get an Apostille?
In Australia, the process of providing a document authentication or an apostille is known as legalization.
The process ensures Australian documents are legalized for use abroad.
Various capital cities throughout Australia provide Apostilles.
The certification process is completed by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) via the various passport offices.
If you’re applying, either submit documents through the mail, or make an appointment to submit your documents in person.
The offices in which you can make appointments are located in:
- Adelaide
- Brisbane
- Canberra
- Darwin
- Hobart
- Melbourne
- Perth
- Sydney
The DFAT is able to legalize the following public documents in Australia:
- Original documents issued by Australian government agencies or officials
- Original documents issued by Australian tertiary education institutions
- Copies of documents notarized by an Australian Notary Public
How to Apostille a Document in Australia
The process to ensure your documents go through legalization to receive an Apostille is made up of three major parts:
- Prepare documentation
- Request legalization services
- Submit documents
Let’s take a closer look at each step.
1. Prepare Documentation
The first item you’ll want to take care of is to ask the requesting entity which documents will require an Apostille.
The DFAT will not be able to confirm whether or not your documents will need legalization services.
From there, confirm which documents can be legalized.
Some of the documents are listed above, but the DFAT provides a more comprehensive list here.
If any of the documents you’ve gathered are not an original Australian public document, you’ll want to ensure documents receive notarization from an Australian Notary Public.
2. Request Legalization Services
The second step on the list will be to request legalization services either through the mail or in person.
To do so, you’ll first fill out a document legalization request form.
You’ll fill out basic details such as name, email address, and home address.
You’ll also specify what type of document you are requesting the legalization process for.
You’ll also submit payment details for each service being requested.
For example, each Apostille you request will cost $92.
3. Submit Documentation
This third step will be where you submit your documentation.
This can be done at any Australian Passport Office or completed through the mail.
If taking the in-person route to submit your documents, you will first make an appointment online beforehand.
Each passport office will have its own booking link, where appointments can be made online through the various passport offices.
For example, if you’re seeking an Apostille in Adelaide, the online appointment link is found through the Adelaide passport office.
If you’re seeking an Apostille stamp in Sydney, the online appointment link is found through the Sydney passport office.
Simply fill out the date and time of your preferred appointment, along with your contact information, and you’re all set!
Once you’ve made your appointment, ensure you bring all appropriate documentation with you.
This includes:
- Document legalization request form
- Original document copy
- Notarized document copy (if required)
- Form of payment
If you arrive at the appointment missing any items, the passport office won’t be able to process the request.
Apostille a Document in Australia – Submission by Mail
If you prefer to submit your documents through the mail, the same documents listed above will be submitted.
Your application form will be sent to the Australian Passport Office Authentications Section.
This will be the address for the Melbourne Passport Office.
As of September 6, 2023, this is the only passport office that accepts legalization documents and applications via mail.
Your credit card authorization for payment should be included with the legalization request form.
Be sure to include a self-addressed envelope to receive your original documents back after processing.
Receiving an Apostille in Australia
Once the DFAT confirms the document contains valid signatures or seals, an Apostille or Authentication certificate will be issued.
The Australian Passport Office certificates signatures on public documents by verifying it against files in their office database.
They will then attach a certificate or apostille confirming authenticity of the document.
That DFAT then signs that verified apostille before sealing it.
Once your documents have been legalized and apostilled, they will be returned to the Australian Passport Office.
You will then be able to pick up your newly apostilled document!
Timeline to Apostille a Document in Australia
The timeline for receiving a completed Apostille varies.
Depending on time of year, where you file, or whether your application was fully complete can all affect turnaround time.
According to one third party certificate service, Apostille certifications may come back within a 25 to 30 day period.
Apostille a Document in Australia Tips and Reminders
Incomplete request forms are not accepted by the DFAT.
In order to avoid having to submit your information twice, be sure to fill out the request form completely when submitting.
The DFAT has a dedicated email address where any information can be confirmed prior to submitting your documents.
In addition, be sure to bring a form of payment with you to your appointment.
An Australian Apostille application will cost $92.
Submitted documents must be original when submitted.
Notarized copies of documents may also be accepted when notarized by an Australian Notary Public.
For the entity that requests a document apostille, they may want to verify the apostille online.
For any Apostille issued after 2015, an Apostille issued by the Australian Government can be verified online.
To do so, the requesting entity will simply need the issue date and apostille number to verify the information.
Quick Note on Translated Copies
The DFAT does accept certain translated documents for legalization.
To do so, the translated document application must include the original document, alongside a signature from a sworn translator.
In short, these items include:
- Signature and name of translator
- An official NAATI stamp
- Date of translation
A statement in English must also be included confirming the document has been accurately translated from the original.
Ready for Your Australian Apostille?
We hope this article has been helpful as you gather the necessary information to apostille a document in Australia.
No need to search online for vague tips such as ‘how to Apostille Sydney’ or ‘how to Apostille Brisbane’ or what your application should include.
Simply refer to this guide to get your process started.
As always, our Go! Go! España team is available to help.
If you have lingering questions or concerns about getting your documents apostilled, we’re here to provide guidance.
Contact us with any questions you may have!
FAQ
Where to apply for an Australian Apostille?
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade handles the Apostille process through various passport offices throughout the country. Applications can be submitted online or through the mail.
What are the Australian cities that handle document processing for an Apostille?
Passport office cities include Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Darwin, Hobart, Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney.
How much does an Apostille cost in Australia?
Each Apostille application costs $92.
