Common Challenges and Solutions for Consulate Legalization of Documents

Did you know that moving through the world becomes way more difficult as the world becomes more complex? Traveling and working internationally was supposed to get easier as globalization rolled on. As technology got more complex, the need to prove who you are and have your documents authenticated grew, too.

Consulate legalization of documents is one of the ways you can verify your documents in accordance with international requirements. Government agencies can then readily accept these documents and allow you to move through the system.

It's not a perfect system and has a few challenges. Learn what they are and how to overcome them here.

Consulate Legalization Takes Longer

In 1961, the Hague passed the Apostille Convention. This international law made it easier for people to authenticate and use their documents abroad, but not every country signed up. You can only use consular or embassy document certification if your country of origin is not a signatory.

These forms of document certification require more permissions, stamps, forms, and even correspondence with your home country. If you can apostille documents, then that's what you should do.

If you can't, working with dedicated notary services is still better. These services can double-check your documents and file them with the right people to ensure the best results the first time.

Technical Requirements

Consulate legalization consists of at least three steps (notarization followed by legalization at both countries' embassies). Each step has heaps of paperwork to go with it. Filling out a form incorrectly or not providing something critical can lead to the process failing.

This is where a notarization service (like ours) shines. We've handled many consular legalization processes before and bring that wealth of experience to the table. With it, we can help get your documents right the first time, drastically increasing your chances of success.

Difficulty of Access

There are very few offices you can work through to get a legal counsel to certify your documents. Most of the places you can work through are clustered around DC. This makes accessing consular certification difficult for the average person.

Most people have to use mail or private couriers to send their documents to their consul(s). This method is slow and can get expensive. There's also the risk that something important gets lost.

A mobile apostille and notary services bring the office to you. Whether you need apostille, notarization, or translation services, an agent comes to your home or work and assists you.

Get Reliable Documentation Assistance

Documents carry greater legal force when they're authenticated. That's why many official processes require authentication.

If you can't use the apostille convention, you can still get authentication through consulate legalization, but it's a tricky process. There are many steps in the process, and they're technical. The offices people have to work through are also often inaccessible.

Luckily, notary services can solve these problems. Our mobile apostille and notary service has the capabilities and expertise to make every step easier for you. Get world class help with your documents certified today.