Apostille and full legalisation of documents for use abroad

In person before the competent bodies

1. 1

   First check the destination state's regime

   Before paying or translating, check with the receiving body whether legalisation is needed. Apostille applies to Hague Convention states; some states or document types have international or bilateral agreements, while others require full legalisation.

2. 2

   Prepare the document and required translation

   Prepare the public document issued by a Croatian body. If a translation is certified, it must be prepared and certified by a competent court interpreter; confirm language and format with the recipient abroad.

3. 3

   For a Hague Convention state, obtain an Apostille

   An Apostille is issued by the territorially competent municipal court for the area of the body that issued or certified the document. No further certification is required for Convention states.

4. 4

   For a state without an applicable agreement, complete full legalisation

   After the municipal court certifies the signature and seal, obtain certifications from the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, and the diplomatic-consular representation of the destination state competent for Croatia.

5. 5

   Check fees, jurisdiction and submission

   Fees and submission can depend on the certification type and court. Before visiting, confirm the court's territorial jurisdiction, current fee, and whether the recipient requires an additional translation or certification.