How Much Does an Apostille Cost in Virginia?

Getting documents authenticated for use abroad is a common requirement, especially for legal, educational, or business purposes. One of the most widely accepted ways to do this is by obtaining an apostille. If you’re living in Virginia and wondering how much it costs to get an apostille, this guide is here to help.

An apostille is a type of certification that verifies the authenticity of a public document, such as a birth certificate, marriage license, diploma, or power of attorney. It’s recognized internationally under the Hague Apostille Convention of 1961.

Let’s break down the total cost of getting an apostille in Virginia and what factors may affect the price.

State Fees for Apostille in Virginia

The Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth is responsible for issuing apostilles in Virginia. As of now, the state fee is $10 per document. This is a flat fee, so whether your document is one page or ten pages, you will pay the same rate per document.

For example:

• One document: $10
• Two documents: $20
• Three documents: $30, and so on.

Keep in mind, this is only the fee charged by the state for processing the apostille. Other costs may apply depending on how you choose to submit your documents.

Extra Costs to Consider

Apart from the state fee, there are a few other charges you might encounter:

1. Notary Fees

If your document needs to be notarized before being apostilled, you may have to pay a separate notary fee. In Virginia, notary fees typically range from $5 to $15 per signature.

2. Mailing & Shipping

Sending your documents to Richmond (where the apostille is issued) and receiving them back will require shipping. Using certified mail or a courier service like FedEx or UPS can cost around $10 to $30, depending on how quickly you want it done.

3. Processing Time

Standard processing through the state office can take 7–14 business days, but if you’re in a hurry, you may opt for expedited apostille services in Virginia through third-party providers who can handle everything on your behalf.

Using a Professional Apostille Service

If you’re unfamiliar with the process or don’t want to deal with the paperwork, you can hire a professional service provider. These companies typically charge anywhere from $75 to $150 per document, depending on the urgency, document type, and delivery method.

These services often include:

• Document review
• Notary support (if needed)
• Delivery to and from the Secretary of the Commonwealth
• Fast turnaround times

If you’re submitting multiple documents or need documents from different states, using a professional service can save you time and reduce errors. Check out trusted apostille services in Virginia for reliable, quick assistance.

How Long Does It Take?

Standard state processing can take 1 to 2 weeks, but faster options are available if you use an express service. Many third-party services can return documents within 24 to 72 hours, though it comes at a higher price.

Why Accuracy Matters

Any mistake in the apostille application or documentation can delay the entire process. For example, submitting documents that aren’t properly notarized or missing required information may lead to rejection.

That’s why many people prefer professional help especially when documents are urgent or sensitive, like school records or international legal papers.Many individuals and businesses in Virginia have turned to Anaia Signings for document handling and apostille services. Known for their accurate and timely work, Anaia Signings makes the process smooth by taking care of document preparation, notarization, and submission on your behalf. Their experience helps reduce delays and ensure peace of mind—especially when dealing with legal or overseas documents.

Are There Discounts for Multiple Documents?

Some service providers offer bundle pricing or discounted rates when you’re submitting multiple documents at once. If you’re planning to apostille several records, it’s worth asking about package deals to reduce the total cost.

Final Words: Is It Worth the Cost?

The total cost to apostille a document in Virginia can vary based on how many documents you have, whether they need notarization, how fast you need them, and whether you do it yourself or hire a service.

On average:

• DIY apostille (basic): Around $10 to $40 per document
• Professional service: Around $75 to $150 per document

If your time is limited or you’re unsure of the process, working with a trusted provider is often worth the extra cost.