For certifying a document and affixing an apostille, you pay a fee set by the relevant authority.

If you would like a list of apostille authorities in individual countries, you can find it at the following link: http://hcch.e-vision.nl.

Whether you need an apostille from domestic state authorities or from abroad, for your company or for yourself, you can make use of our apostille services. For further information, please get in touch via our contact form.

What Affects the Cost and Time of an Apostille

Every apostille involves an administrative fee set by the competent authority in the country where the document was issued. The fee itself is only part of the picture, however. When planning a budget and timescale for legalising documents, it helps to understand the other factors that can influence the overall cost and how long the process takes.

Factors That Influence the Total

  • The number of documents that need an apostille, as each one is usually charged separately
  • Whether a document first needs to be certified by a notary or another authority
  • The country of issue, as fees and procedures differ between jurisdictions
  • Whether you require a standard or expedited service, where one is available
  • Translation by a sworn or certified translator
  • Courier and postage costs, especially for documents sent between countries

Documents From Abroad

An apostille can only be issued in the country where the document originated. If you need an apostille on, for example, an English company certificate or an American document, the request must go to the competent authority in that country. Arranging this from a distance can be time-consuming, particularly if you are unfamiliar with the local procedure. Working with a provider who has contacts in the relevant country can make the process smoother.

Avoiding Unnecessary Costs

The most common reason for extra expense is having to repeat a step. This can happen if the wrong version of a document is legalised, if the translation is done in the wrong order or if the receiving authority expects a more recent document. Before you start, check exactly what the recipient needs and how recent the document must be.

Planning Your Timescale

If you need the documents for a specific deadline, such as opening a bank account, registering a company or applying for residence, allow time not only for the apostille itself but also for translations and delivery.

Contact eTuls for a tailored quotation. We can arrange apostilles on documents from Slovakia and other countries and coordinate translations and delivery for you.