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Apostille Meaning Australia

Swift Apostille
August 2024
5 min read

What is the meaning of Apostille stamp in Australia?

An Apostille is a specific type of certification which is stamped onto a document to confirm the authenticity of the document's signature, seal or stamp and the authority of the person or organisation that issued it. An Apostille essentially makes a document from one country accepted in another country. An Apostille stamp is a 9x9 cm square certificate which sets out the details of the country where the document was issued, the authority of the person or organisation that issued the document, the date of the Apostille, the name of the person who issued the Apostille, the seal and stamp of the authority that issued the Apostille and the Apostille number. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is the only authority that is issued to issue Apostilles in Australia.

Below is an example of an Apostille issued by DFAT

Apostille DFAT

When is an Apostille stamp required?

An Apostille stamp is required if the destination country of the document is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention ('Apostille Convention). The Apostille Convention simplifies the process of authenticating documents for international use. Under the Apostille Convention, member countries agree to recognise an Apostille as a valid certification for documents issued by authorities within the same country.

How do I know if the destination country is a member of the Apostille Convention?

Refer to our List of Countries Accepting an Apostille which provides the most up-to-date list of countries that are members of the Apostille Convention.

What if the destination country is not a member of the Apostille Convention?

If the intended destination country is not a signatory to the Apostille Convention, then you may need to have your document "authenticated" by DFAT and then legalised by the foreign Embassy or Consulate in Australia. Legalisation by the foreign Embassy or Consulate is an extra step which is only required for countries which are not members of the Apostille Convention.

How Swift Apostille can help

Swift Apostille can have your document Apostilled by DFAT. Book online by follow this link to our online booking platform. We attend the DFAT daily for our clients. The booking form will guide you through the process.

Please note that these guides are intended to provide a general guide and information and should not be relied upon as legal or other professional advice.

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