In Australia, the Apostille stamp is issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). DFAT is the competent authority responsible for certifying that a signature, stamp, or seal on an official Australian public document is genuine by affixing the Apostille. Apostille is only useful in countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention.
Types of Documents Eligible for Apostille
Documents that can receive an Apostille in Australia typically include, but are not limited to, notarized documents, government-issued documents (like birth, marriage, or death certificates), academic records, and legal documents (such as court orders or company registration certificates).
Process of Obtaining an Apostille
To obtain an Apostille, you first need to ensure that your document is an original and has been certified correctly. You then submit this document to DFAT. The submission can be done via mail or in person, depending on the state or territory. Along with your document, you will need to provide a completed application form and pay the applicable fee.
Locations for Obtaining an Apostille in Australia
DFAT has offices in several capital cities across Australia where Apostilles can be obtained. These locations include, but are not limited to:
- Canberra
- Sydney
- Melbourne
- Brisbane
- Perth
- Adelaide
- Hobart
In addition to these offices, there are also postal submission options available for those who cannot physically visit an office.
Examples of Document Certification
Government-Issued Documents
- Birth, Marriage, or Death Certificates:
- These documents should be original copies issued by the relevant government registry, like the Registry of Births, Deaths, and Marriages in the respective state or territory.
- Police Clearances:
- Obtain an original police clearance certificate from the Australian Federal Police or state police.
Academic Records
- Diplomas and Transcripts:
- These must be original documents issued by the educational institution. If copies are used, they must be certified as true copies by the institution or a notary public.
- Letters of Offer or Completion:
- Should be original and issued directly by the educational institution.
Legal Documents
- Court Orders:
- Original court orders or documents certified by the court clerk.
- Affidavits and Declarations:
- Must be signed in the presence of a notary public or other authorized person.
Business and Corporate Documents
- Certificates of Registration or Incorporation:
- Should be original copies from the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC).
- Company Minutes and Resolutions:
- Certified by a company director or company secretary.
Personal Documents
- Consent Letters for Children Traveling Abroad:
- Signed in the presence of a notary public or other authorized official.
- Medical Reports:
- Original documents signed and stamped by the issuing medical institution or practitioner.