Country Guide · 🇪🇸

Apostille for Spain

Spain accepts documents authenticated with an apostille under the Hague Convention. Most U.S. records used in Spain need a certified copy first, then an apostille from the state that issued the document — or from the U.S. Department of State for federal records.

Hague Member?
Yes — apostille accepted
Requires Apostille?
Yes
Embassy Legalization?
Not required

Typical documents used in Spain

  • Birth certificate
  • Marriage certificate
  • FBI background check
  • Power of attorney
  • Diploma or transcript

Requirements at a glance

  • Certified copies of vital records from the issuing state
  • Notarized documents apostilled by the state where the notary is commissioned
  • Certified translation into Spanish is often requested by Spanish authorities
  • FBI background checks apostilled by the U.S. Department of State
Estimated processing

1–3 weeks depending on issuing state

Working language for translation: Spanish

Notes from experience

Spanish consulates and civil registries often request a sworn translation performed by a translator recognized in Spain. We can help you prepare the document correctly before it goes for translation.

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