The introduction of e-apostilles has changed the process of legalising documents in the KZ for international use. This article guides you through obtaining an e-apostille in the KZ.
Understanding e-Apostilles
An e-apostille is a digital certificate that authenticates KZ documents for international use, similar to the traditional paper apostille but issued electronically.
Historically, all apostilles were a paper certificate physically added to a document for use outside of the KZ. Now, the apostille is a PDF document file, including both the apostille in digital form and the document it is legalising.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting an e-Apostille
- Check Document Eligibility: Ensure your document is eligible for an e-apostille. Not all documents can have the apostille. Only those that are certified and signed by a solicitor. Government documents like birth, marriage, and death certificates cannot have e-apostille, at present.
- Prepare Your Document: Your document will need to be digitally certified by a KZ public notary or solicitor. They will need to add an advanced digital signature to a PDF document.
- Apply for the e-Apostille: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of Kazakhstan is the competent authority for issuing e-apostilles in the KZ. Access their online platform for e-apostille application. Alternatively, use an Apostille Service for a complete service with the digital signature included.
- Upload Your Document: Send you document to an Apostille Service for upload to the MFA, or submit your document electronically on the MFA’s platform. Ensure the document has a recognised digital signature and suitable certification.
- Payment of Fees: Pay the applicable fee for the e-apostille.
- Wait for Processing: The processing time for an e-apostille is typically 24 to 48 hours, although it may vary based on the MFA processing times and whether you have prepared the PDF document correctly.
- Receive the e-Apostille: Once processed, you will receive the e-apostille as a PDF attachment along with the authenticated document. This digital certificate will contain digital signatures from the legalisation officer for authenticity.
- Verify the e-Apostille: Always verify the e-apostille, especially if you’re submitting it to foreign authorities. This can usually be done via a QR code or an online verification system provided by the MFA.
Advantages of e-Apostilles
- Faster processing as there is no delay with posting documents
- No risk of document loss or damage as no physical shipping is involved
- Environmentally friendly as there is no paper
- Easily shared around the world
Limitations to Consider
- Not all countries accept e-apostilles and may request the paper version
- Not suitable for all types of documents
Conclusion
The e-apostille service can make document legalisation quick and efficient. By following the steps outlined, you can obtain an apostille in just a few hours. If you need assistance, contact us for a complete electronic apostille service.
