Virginia Apostille & Document Authentication
Virginia’s recent-issuance rules can require a replacement certified copy even when your original record is genuine. Check dates and court certification before shipping.
Check the twelve-month requirement
The Secretary of the Commonwealth requires eligible vital records, court records and notarizations within the past 12 months. Court records need a Certification of Official Record/Triple Seal, issue date and legible clerk information. Eligible vital records come from Virginia’s official records channels.
Avoid improper notarization
Do not notarize Virginia vital records or court records. For a document that legitimately needs notarization, use the complete Virginia certificate with venue, date, notarial statement, signature, commission expiration, registration number and matching seal. The notarization must be in English; electronic notarizations are not currently accepted.
Prepare the return package
Include original eligible documents, the state cover letter, correct fees and prepaid return mailer. Courier and authentication-company submissions use the designated route; constituent appointments cannot be used by those companies.
Service estimate
Premier’s typical other-state service estimate is 5–7 business days, subject to document review, the submission route and authority availability. Shipping time is additional. Confirm timing before committing to a deadline.
Frequently asked questions
Can Virginia handle an out-of-state diploma?
No. Virginia directs out-of-state transcripts and diplomas to their state of origin.
Official sources
Reviewed on 2026-10-13
Premier document review and timing
Missouri service takes 24–48 hours; other-state service typically takes 5–7 business days. We confirm the estimate for your document and submission route. Federal timing is confirmed after document review. Shipping time is additional. These are Premier service estimates, not government guarantees.
Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM CST. By appointment only.
Start your request