Can a Photocopy or Scanned Document Be Apostilled?

Apostille requirements depend on the document type and issuing authority.

• Birth, marriage, and death certificates: Generally require an eligible certified copy(not photocopy) issued by the appropriate government agency.

• Power of Attorney, affidavits, and personal documents: May qualify for apostille after proper notarization, depending on applicable requirements.

• Diplomas and academic transcripts: May require certification or notarization before apostille processing.

• Scanned documents and PDFs: Generally cannot be apostilled directly as ordinary printouts. However, certain documents may qualify after appropriate certification or notarization.

Not sure whether your document qualifies?

Email us a clear scan or photo before sending the original. We'll review the document type, explain the applicable requirements, and help you determine the next steps.

Important for Ohio: An Ohio notary cannot personally certify a photocopy as a true copy of an original. For eligible private documents, the document custodian may make a sworn or acknowledged statement that the copy is accurate, which the notary can notarize. Acceptance depends on the receiving authority

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