Notary or Apostille? Here’s What Peoria, AZ Residents Need to Know

If you're handling important documents—especially those going overseas—you may be unsure whether you need a notary public, an apostille, or both. As a trusted mobile notary and apostille service provider in Peoria, AZ, I help clients understand the difference and get their paperwork processed correctly the first time.

What Does a Notary Public Do?

A notary verifies your identity, witnesses your signature, and ensures the document is signed willingly and knowingly. In Arizona, notaries are appointed by the Secretary of State.

You may need a notary for:

• Real estate and loan documents

• Powers of attorney

• Parental consent forms

• Legal affidavits

• Medical or school records

• Business agreements

Notarization does not make a document “legal,” but it adds a layer of trust and verification—often required for official use.

What Is an Apostille, and When Do You Need One?

An apostille is a type of certification that authenticates a notarized or government-issued document for use in another country that is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention.

You may need an apostille if:

• You’re sending notarized documents to another country

• A foreign government or school requests official certification

• You’re handling international legal, personal, or business matters

In Arizona, apostilles are issued by the Arizona Secretary of State, and many documents require notarization before the apostille can be applied.

What If the Country Is Not Part of the Hague Convention?

If your documents are going to a country not part of the Hague Convention, they will likely require authentication followed by consulate or embassy legalization, instead of an apostille. This is often referred to as a non-Hague process, and it typically includes more steps.

The good news: I assist with both Hague and non-Hague document preparation, helping you get the right certifications to ensure your paperwork is accepted abroad—no guesswork needed.

Notary vs. Apostille: Quick Guide

Where Will Your Document Be Used?	You Likely Need…
Inside the U.S.	Notary Only
Outside the U.S. (Hague Convention country)	Notary + Apostille
Outside the U.S. (Non-Hague Convention)	Notary + Authentication + Legalization
Foreign Government Document	Apostille or Embassy Legalization

Tip: Always confirm with the receiving institution exactly what’s required. Requirements can vary by country and document type.

Serving Peoria, AZ and Surrounding Cities

I offer both notary services and apostille/legalization assistance throughout Peoria and nearby areas including Glendale, Surprise, Sun City, and Phoenix. Whether you need a single signature notarized or help navigating a complex international document process, I make it simple and efficient.

Let’s Get Your Documents Handled—Fast and Professionally

📍 Located in Peoria, AZ | Mobile services available

📞 Call or text: 623.238.1322

📝 Same-day appointments often available

🌎 Apostille & legalization support for all 50 states and many countries

Have questions or ready to get started? Contact me today and I’ll walk you through the next steps—so you can have peace of mind your documents are in good hands.