What is an Apostille in Australia?

An Apostille is a specific type of certification issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) certifying that a document is either an original Australian government issued document or a document that has been notarised by a Notary Public. An Apostille confirms the authenticity of the document's signature, seal, or stamp and the authority of the person or organisation that issued it for countries that are members of the Apostille Convention.

What does an Apostille look like?

An Apostille is a 9x9 cm square which sets out the details of the country where the document was issued, the authority of the person or organisation that issued the document, the date of the Apostille, the DFAT officers name, the seal and stamp of DFAT and the Apostille number. If the document is an original Australian government issued document the Apostille will usually be stamped on the back of the document. If the document is a document Notarised by an Australian Notary Public the Apostille will usually be stamped on the back of the Notarial Certificate.

Below is an example of an Australia Apostille issued by DFAT:

Who can issue an Apostille in Australia?

DFAT is the only body in Australia that can issue an Apostille. DFAT issues Apostilles through the passport office in each Australia State and Territory.

When do I need an Apostille?

An Apostille is recognised in countries that are signatories to the Hague Apostille Convention (Apostille). The Apostille Convention simplifies the process of authenticating documents for international use. Under the Apostille Convention, participating countries agree to recognise an Apostille as a valid certification for documents issued by authorities within the same country. Refer to our List of Countries Accepting an Apostille.

What if the intended destination country is not a signatory to the Apostille Convention?

If the intended destination country is not a signatory to the Apostille Convention, then you may need to have your document "authenticated" by DFAT.

Have any other questions?

Contact us at support@swiftnotary.com.au.

View our other guides:

• ‍Who can Apostille a document in Australia?
• How do I get an Apostille in Australia?
• How to Apostille a document in Australia?
• How much does an Apostille cost in Australia?
• How to verify an Australia Apostille issued by DFAT?

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