Because there are so many variables to the apostille process, the exact procedure often varies from person to person. One requirement to be aware of is that any documents that are in a foreign language need to be translated by a certified translator, as well as notarized as a true English translation. The Secretary of State will not authenticate or provide an apostille for documents that are written in a language other than English. Once a translated copy is obtained, that version must be apostilled as opposed to the original foreign language version.

Another stipulation to be aware of is that in situations where both the court clerk and state competent authority must certify your document, it must clearly show that the clerk certified it first. This is crucial to the process because your apostille will not be processed without correct notarization methods.