Understanding Apostille

An “apostille” is an official certification that verifies the authenticity of a document issued under the 1961 Hague Convention. It is recognised by member countries of the convention, simplifying the process of using documents internationally. Malaysia became a signatory to the Apostille Convention on March 20, 2022. As a result, documents for use in member countries can now be authenticated via an apostille issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Malaysia.

Additional legalisation by the relevant embassies may still be required for documents intended for non-signatory countries. This applies to various documents, including corporate papers, academic certificates, and marital status declarations.

The process of obtaining an apostille involves several steps to ensure the document’s legitimacy. These include notarisation, verification by a court clerk, and certification by the relevant government authority. This multi-step process validates seals, signatures, and authenticated translations, ensuring that documents are accepted in international jurisdictions.

Before submitting an apostille, it is crucial to complete all required notarisation procedures accurately to avoid delays or rejection. Understanding the specific requirements for each destination country can help streamline the process.