When does a document need an apostille?
An apostille is generally relevant when a Swedish public document will be used in another country covered by the Hague Convention and the recipient wants its origin authenticated. Simplified EU rules may remove the apostille requirement for certain public documents. Check both the country and the document before ordering.
- Population certificates and other public records
- Diplomas and certain education documents
- Corporate documents, powers of attorney and certified copies after the correct preparation
What does an apostille certify – and what does it not certify?
The apostille authenticates the signature, the capacity in which the person signed and, where relevant, the identity of the seal or stamp. It does not confirm that the document’s contents are correct and does not replace the recipient’s requirements for an original, translation or recently issued document.
How to prepare an apostille case
Gather the recipient’s written instructions, a clear copy of the entire document and the country where it will be used. Check that names, dates, signatures, printed names and any official seal are legible. A private document may need notarisation before an apostille can be issued.
