Apostille & document legalization for Mexico

What Is an Apostille?

An apostille is an official certificate that verifies the origin of a public document. It's used when you need to prove that a document from your home country is authentic for use in Mexico. The apostille doesn't translate your document or change its contents—it simply confirms that signatures, seals, and stamps on the original are genuine.

Most countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention use apostilles. Mexico recognizes apostilles from these countries. If your home country isn't part of this agreement, you'll likely need full legalization instead.

Apostille vs. Legalization: What's the Difference?

Apostille is simpler and faster. It's a single certificate added to your original document, used between countries in the Hague convention.

Legalization is a longer process involving multiple steps through different government offices in both countries. You'll typically need to get your document certified at your country's foreign ministry, then at the Mexican embassy or consulate. Legalization is required if your country doesn't participate in the Hague Apostille Convention.

Which Documents Need Apostille or Legalization?

Common documents that need certification for Mexico include:

• Birth certificates
• Marriage certificates
• Divorce decrees
• Academic diplomas and transcripts
• Police clearance certificates
• Power of attorney documents
• Medical records
• Employment letters

Always check with the specific Mexican government office or employer that requested the documents. Requirements vary depending on your visa type or residency application.

How to Get an Apostille

Contact your home country's issuing authority—usually the government office that created or holds the original document. This might be a vital records office, court, education ministry, or secretary of state.

Submit your original document or a certified copy with a request for apostille. Many countries now offer online or mail-in services. Processing times vary widely, so apply well in advance of your Mexico move.

The apostille will be attached directly to your document as a separate page or certificate.

Steps for Legalization

If apostille doesn't apply to you:

1. Have your document certified by your country's foreign ministry or equivalent

2. Submit the certified document to the Mexican embassy or consulate in your country

3. Pay any required fees

4. Collect the legalized document when ready

This process takes longer than apostille, sometimes several weeks or months.

Next Steps

Start by confirming whether your home country uses the Hague Apostille Convention. Check the official website of Mexico's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores, or SRE) for current document requirements and procedures. Contact the Mexican embassy or consulate serving your area for specific guidance on your visa category.

This is general self-help information, not legal advice. Always verify current rules on the official government website.