GO SOLUTIONS

Apostille and sworn/certified translations of U.S. documents

If you plan to use company documents in EU (e.g., Poland) (banking, authorities, contracting, branch setup), you usually need the right legalisation path. Below we explain when Apostille applies, when notarial certification is required, and how to prepare a document set that works in cross‑border practice.

In brief
  • check_circleWhen you need Apostille / document legalisation
  • check_circleWhat the procedure looks like, timelines and requirements
  • check_circleOptions for notarisation and translations
Key takeaways

You usually need legalisation when documents must work outside the U.S.—with a bank, an authority, a notary, or for a branch setup. Apostille confirms authenticity under the Hague Convention, while notarial certification may be required for signatures and statements. Depending on the package, we organise the right set (Apostille / certifications / translations) so you receive documents ready for practical use in EU (e.g., Poland).

Apostille and document certification – signatures and seals

If you plan to use your company documents in an EU country (e.g., Poland), the key question is not only how the documents are issued, but how they will be accepted by the local authority, bank, or counterparty.

What is an Apostille (Hague Convention 1961)
An Apostille is an official authentication confirming that a document was issued by a competent authority in the country of origin. In practice, it makes public documents easier to use abroad without additional consular legalisation.

When you may need notarisation/certification
An Apostille applies to public documents. Corporate documents often need to be issued as certified copies and/or notarised before an Apostille can be attached. Requirements vary depending on the receiving institution and the type of document.

Why Apostille alone is often not enough in an EU country (e.g., Poland)
In cross‑border matters, authentication is only one part of the puzzle. If the proceeding is conducted in the local language, foreign‑language documents typically require a sworn translation. Depending on the case, you may also need certified copies and clear proof of representation.

What you receive with Go Solutions
BUSINESS: notarisation/certification guidance and a practical legalisation path (Apostille, if required) + internal translation of the corporate set.
PRESTIGE: we act on your behalf to obtain an Apostille + remote notarisation/certification (where available) + sworn translation of the founding documents, and we deliver a complete, ready‑to‑use package.

FAQ: Apostille & translations

Which documents most often require an Apostille?
Most often: birth/marriage certificates, powers of attorney, company documents, and selected public documents — depending on the U.S. institution receiving them.
Do I always need both Apostille and sworn translation?
Not always. Sometimes an Apostille is enough; other times a sworn translation is required as well. The safest approach is to confirm the recipient’s requirements.
How long does the Apostille process take?
It depends on the document type and the processing mode (standard/expedited). Proper preparation of originals/certified copies is key.
Can I start with document scans?
In many cases we start with scans for verification, but the final workflow depends on Apostille rules and the recipient institution.
How do I avoid document rejection?
The most common issues are the wrong copy type, missing signatures/certifications, or data errors. A checklist and pre‑submission verification help a lot.