Diploma Apostille California
Notarize + Apostille · From $150 All-In · CA Secretary of State
Why Diplomas Need Notarization Before Apostille
Unlike birth certificates issued with an official government seal, diplomas and transcripts carry a school official’s signature — not a government seal. The California Secretary of State cannot apostille a private school document directly. It must first be notarized by a California notary public, who certifies the signature or produces a certified copy. Sacramento Notary Co handles both steps.
Step 1 — Notarization
We notarize your original diploma, transcript, or a certified copy of it. The notary’s signature and stamp are what the SOS will apostille.
Step 2 — SOS Filing
We file the notarized document at the California Secretary of State Apostille Unit. Standard 5–10 business days; rush 2–3 days available.
Step 3 — Return
Your apostilled document ships back via USPS Priority or FedEx with full tracking. International return available on request.
Common Uses for Diploma Apostille
Employment Visas
UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and other Gulf states require apostilled academic credentials for professional license registration and work visa applications.
Professional Licensing
Medical, legal, and engineering licensing boards in Germany, South Korea, India, and Brazil require apostilled degrees from US institutions.
University Admissions
Graduate programs in Europe and Asia often require apostilled transcripts from the undergraduate institution as part of the application package.
Immigration
Skilled worker immigration programs in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand may require apostilled credentials for points-based assessments.
Teaching Abroad
Teaching certification programs in South Korea, Japan, China, and the Middle East require apostilled degrees and transcripts alongside teaching credentials.
Business Permits
Opening a professional practice or registering a business in some countries requires apostilled proof of educational qualifications.
Diploma Apostille Pricing
Standard
$150Notarization + SOS filing + CA state fee + USPS tracked return. 5–10 business days.
Rush
$2502–3 business days. Includes expedited SOS filing and FedEx tracked return.
Diploma + Transcript Bundle
$200Both documents notarized and apostilled together at a bundled rate.
Mail-in accepted statewide. Drop-off available in Sacramento. Call (916) 856-7000 to confirm your document type before sending.
Diploma Apostille FAQ
Does a diploma need notarization first?
Yes. Unlike birth certificates, diplomas carry a school official’s signature. A California notary must certify the signature before the SOS can issue an apostille.
How much does it cost?
Standard: $150 all-in. Rush: $250. Bundle (diploma + transcript): $200.
How long does it take?
Standard 5–10 business days from receipt. Rush 2–3 business days.
Can I mail my diploma?
Yes — mail to our Sacramento office at 8264 Center Parkway #99. We notarize, file, and return it tracked.
What if I don’t have my original diploma?
Contact your school for a new certified copy or a registrar letter. We can notarize the registrar’s letter as an alternative.
Does apostille work in non-Hague countries?
No. Non-Hague countries (China, UAE, Qatar) require full legalization through the embassy — we advise on the correct channel.