Passport
Passport Authentication Services
True Copy Certification Required
At Express Apostille Services, we frequently assist clients with the authentication of U.S. passports for international use. Because passports are federally issued identity documents, they can never be processed as original documents. Instead, all passport authentications must be completed using a True Copy Apostile or Certification.
Why Passports Cannot Be Processed as Originals
U.S. passports are the property of the U.S. government and cannot be stamped, altered, or permanently attached to certificates. For this reason, government authorities will only accept a certified true copy of the passport for apostille or legalization purposes.
True Copy Certification Explained
A True Copy Certification is a notarized statement in which a notary public certifies that a photocopy of your passport is a true, complete, and accurate copy of the original document presented.
This certified copy—not the physical passport—is then used for:
- Apostilles (for Hague Convention countries)
- Legalization (for non-Hague countries)
- Embassy or consulate processing
- International visa, residency, or employment requirements
Passport Signature Requirement
Your passport must be signed before submission.
Unsigned passports are considered incomplete and may be rejected by notaries or government authorities, causing delays in processing.
Our Passport Authentication Process
- Client provides a clear copy of the signed passport (photo page).
- True Copy Certification is completed by a qualified notary.
- Apostille or legalization is obtained from the appropriate authority based on destination country requirements.
- Final documents are returned via secure delivery.
Important Notes
- Do not send your physical passport.
- Typically, only the passport photo/data page is required.
- Processing requirements may vary depending on the destination country.
Apostille your Passport Today!
To obtain an apostille on your passport that ships same or next day, place your order online here with a clear scan of your signed passport.