What is the difference between an Apostille for the translation and an Apostille for the original document?

The difference between an Apostille for the translation and an Apostille for the original document lies in the document to which the Apostille refers and the purpose of its issuance. Here is a closer look:

Apostille for the original document

• Reference: Die Apostille für das Originaldokument bezieht sich direkt auf das ursprüngliche offizielle Dokument (z.B. Geburtsurkunde, Heiratsurkunde, Diplom).

• Purpose: It confirms the authenticity of the original document itself. Such an apostille is issued to confirm that the document has been signed or stamped by an authorised person or authority in the issuing country. This confirmation is necessary for the document to be recognised and used abroad.

• Process: The original document is submitted to a competent authority (often a government agency or court) in the country where the document was issued for apostillisation.

Apostille for the translation

• Reference: The apostille for translation refers to the translation of an official document, not to the original document itself.

• Purpose: It confirms the authenticity of the notarisation of the translation. When a translation is notarised, the notary confirms the accuracy of the translation. The apostille for the translation then confirms that the notarial certification was carried out by an authorised person. This is important if the translation of an official document is to be used abroad for legal purposes.

• Process: The notarised translation is submitted to a competent authority to obtain the apostille. This authority confirms the authenticity of the notarised translation.

The main difference is that the apostille for the original document confirms the authenticity of the original document itself, while the apostille for the translation confirms the authenticity of the notarisation of the translation. Both processes are necessary to facilitate the international recognition and use of official documents and their translations, especially in countries that are party to the Hague Apostille Convention. The type of apostille required depends on the purpose and requirements of the receiving authority abroad.