Apostille for Documents: Full List of Countries Where It Is Required in 2026
An apostille is a special certification stamp that confirms the authenticity of official documents for use abroad. For clients of the translation bureau Translate Innova, apostille certification is often a key step in preparing documents for education employment immigration marriage or doing business outside Ukraine.
In this article we explain which countries require an apostille when it is mandatory and which documents are most commonly apostilled.
What Is an Apostille and When Is It Required
An apostille is a form of international document legalization provided for by the Hague Convention of 1961. It certifies the authenticity of the signature the capacity of the person who signed the document and the authenticity of the seal or stamp.
An apostille is required when the document was issued in Ukraine the document will be used in another country and both countries are parties to the Hague Convention.
If a country is not a party to the Convention consular legalization is required instead of an apostille.
List of Countries That Require an Apostille
Below is a list of the most common destination countries for which an apostille is mandatory in order for Ukrainian documents to be officially recognized.
European Countries
Austria Belgium Bulgaria Greece Denmark Estonia Italy Spain Latvia Lithuania The Netherlands Germany Poland Portugal Romania Slovakia Slovenia Hungary France Croatia Czech Republic Switzerland Sweden
For most EU countries an apostille is a standard requirement.
North and South America
United States Canada Mexico Argentina Brazil Chile Colombia Peru
Asian Countries
Japan South Korea India Israel Turkey Thailand China for Hong Kong and Macau only
Australia and Oceania
Australia New Zealand
Documents Most Commonly Apostilled
The most frequently apostilled documents include
birth certificates marriage certificates divorce certificates diplomas certificates transcripts and supplements police clearance certificates notarized statements and powers of attorney court decisions corporate registration and statutory documents
In most cases after apostille certification a professional translation into the language of the destination country is required.
Apostille and Translation an Important Note
It is important to understand that an apostille does not replace a translation. Most foreign authorities accept documents only if they include an apostille and a notarized translation or a sworn translation depending on the country requirements.
The translation bureau Translate Innova provides comprehensive support including document translation preparation for apostille certification and consultations on country specific requirements.
Why Choose Translate Innova
By working with Translate Innova you receive expert document review before apostille certification accurate legal and official translations risk minimization for international submissions and a clear transparent process without unnecessary delays.
We work with both private clients and businesses ensuring full compliance of documents with international standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an apostille required for all countries No an apostille is required only for countries that are parties to the Hague Convention. For other countries consular legalization applies.
Is an apostille required for a translation An apostille is affixed to the original document or a notarized copy. The translation is usually completed after apostille certification.
How long does apostille certification take The processing time depends on the type of document and the issuing authority.
If you need apostille certification and a professional translation contact the translation bureau Translate Innova we will help you prepare your documents correctly from the very first step.