The Secretary of the Commonwealth provides authentication of Pennsylvania public officials’ signatures on documents that will be used outside the United States. For documents intended for use in foreign countries, the country of destination determines whether the authentication is an Apostille or Certification. Apostilles and Certifications are not issued for documents that will be used within the United States.

When a Pennsylvania notary public notarizes a document that will be filed in another state or country, the notary may be asked for proof of his or her appointment. This verification, depending upon the requirements of the particular state or country, may be obtained from the county where the notary public's office is located or from the Secretary of the Commonwealth. The individual for whom the notarization was completed should check with the state or country for its requirements.

 The Apostilles, certifications and other verifications are prepared by the Secretary of the Commonwealth for a $15.00 fee.