"Authenticating" a document may also be called "verifying," "certifying," or attaching a "state seal." An "Apostille" is a specific format of an authentication certificate that is required by certain countries. When requesting authentication certificates from the Secretary of State's office, it is important to specify which foreign country is involved, so this Office can determine if an apostille or "regular" authentication is necessary. Use of the wrong certificate can cause a document to be rejected by the foreign country.

Click below for further information and access to the Authentication and Apostille Certificate Request form.

• Authentication/Apostille Order Form (click here)
• Forma del Autenticación/Apostilla (Español) (click aquí)

Make certain to check the acceptable documentation before submitting your document for Authentication or Apostille.

If you are submitting:

• A document that has been signed by a notary public (click here)
• A document that has been signed by a Wisconsin Public Officer (click here)
• A document signed by or issued by a Wisconsin School Officer (click here)
• A Wisconsin Vital Record (click here)

We Do Not issue Authentications or Apostilles for federally issued documents.

• If you have a Federally issued document such as an FBI Background check (click here for more information).

Asegúrese de verificar la documentación aceptable antes de presentar su documento de Autenticación o Apostilla.

Si usted está presentando:

• Un documento que ha sido firmado por un notary public (click aquí)
• Un documento que ha sido firmado por un oficial de Wisconsin Public (click aquí)
• Un documento firmado por el o emitido por una Escuela Oficial de Wisconsin (click aquí)
• El Registro Civil de Wisconsin (click aquí)

If you have questions about your document contact our office by email at statesec@wi.gov.