What an apostille establishes
Under the applicable convention, an apostille authenticates the signature, the capacity of the signatory and, where relevant, a seal or stamp. It does not determine the substantive legal correctness of the document or automatically amend a register. Whether the convention applies and which authority can issue the apostille must be checked for the document’s country and type.
Check international certificate arrangements
Multilingual civil-status extracts such as Formül A, B and C may benefit from applicable international arrangements. This should not be treated as a blanket exemption for every document. Ask the receiving institution exactly which certificate and format it accepts before purchasing an unnecessary translation or authentication.
Arrange a complete and suitable translation
A foreign document used in Turkey may need a Turkish translation in a form accepted by the relevant authority. Translation does not replace the original or a required authentication. Names, dates, court endorsements, apostilles and relevant attachments must be rendered consistently. The translator should work from the full document that will actually be submitted.
Obtain the correct document first
Start with the complete certificate or accepted official copy and any required endorsements. Clarify authentication next, then prepare the final translation of all necessary parts. Judgments may require separate proof of finality. A shortened extract or a copy without the essential endorsement may not meet the requirements even if its translation is accurate.
Documents for an initial review
This list helps you prepare. Additional evidence depends on your specific matter.
- Complete original or accepted official copy
- Written requirements from the receiving institution
- Finality evidence for a judgment, if required
- Applicable apostille or other authentication
- Translation including relevant endorsements and attachments
Frequently asked questions
Does every foreign document need an apostille?
No. Applicable conventions, document type and the receiving authority’s requirements must be checked.
Does an apostille recognise a foreign judgment?
No. Authentication and legal recognition are separate questions.
Should I translate first?
First establish the complete document and required endorsements so the final translation covers everything.
Official sources
- Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs: consular questions
- German Federal Foreign Office: certification and notarisation
- NVI: issuing population register extracts
This guide explains general steps. Jurisdiction, applicable law and documents depend on the facts of your case. Authority requirements may change.