How to Apostille a Document in Georgia: Step-by-Step Guide
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If you need to use a Georgian document in another country, you may need an apostille — an official international certification recognized by all Hague Convention member states (115+ countries). This step-by-step guide explains exactly how to apostille a document in Georgia in 2025.
Step 1: Determine If Apostille Is Required
Apostille is required when submitting official Georgian documents to authorities in another country that is a member of the Hague Convention of 1961. Common uses include university enrollment abroad, visa applications, work permits, dual citizenship, and business registration. Check with the receiving institution whether they need the apostille on the original, on the translation, or on both.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Ensure your document is an original or a notarized copy issued by an authorized Georgian institution. Personal documents must usually be recent (some countries require issue within 3–6 months). If translation is required, get it notarized first.
Step 3: Get a Certified Translation (If Needed)
If the destination country requires a translation alongside the apostilled original, order a notarized translation from NotaryTranslation first. Bring both the original and the translation to the Ministry of Justice.
Step 4: Submit to the Ministry of Justice of Georgia
Visit the nearest House of Justice (სახელმწიფო სერვისების განვითარების სააგენტო) with your document. Pay the state fee: 30 GEL standard (3–5 business days) or 50 GEL same-day/expedited service. You will receive the apostille stamp directly on the document or on a separately attached sheet.
Step 5: Verify the Apostille
You can verify any Georgian apostille online using the Hague Conference apostille verification tool. The apostille is internationally recognized and requires no further legalization in Hague Convention countries.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to get an apostille in Georgia?
- Standard processing at the House of Justice takes 3–5 business days for 30 GEL. Same-day expedited apostille is available for 50 GEL at most House of Justice branches in Tbilisi.
- Can I apostille a translated document?
- The apostille is applied to the original Georgian document, not to a translation. However, some countries require the notarized translation itself to be apostilled — in this case, the notarized translation counts as an official document and can receive an apostille.
- What is the difference between apostille and consular legalization?
- Apostille is a simple one-step process for Hague Convention countries. Consular legalization is required for non-member countries and involves multiple steps: Ministry of Justice → Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia → embassy of the target country.
- Do I need a translator before getting an apostille in Georgia?
- Not always. The apostille certifies the original document. However, the receiving institution in the other country will typically also require a notarized translation. NotaryTranslation handles both services.
Need Help with Apostille or Notarized Translation in Tbilisi?
We handle the full chain: translation → notarization → apostille guidance. Call +995 591 729 911 or email [email protected].