If you are preparing documents for international use, one of the first questions you will ask is: how much does an apostille cost, and how long will it take? The answer varies significantly depending on which state issued your document. Each state's Secretary of State sets its own fee structure and operates with different processing volumes, leading to wide variations in both cost and turnaround time. Understanding these differences upfront can save you from costly delays and help you choose the right service level for your timeline. This guide provides a comprehensive, up‑to‑date comparison of apostille fees and processing times across all 50 states, with detailed breakdowns for the most frequently used jurisdictions.
Key Takeaway (July 2026): State apostille fees typically range from $5 to $30 per document, with most states charging between $10 and $20[reference:0]. Processing times vary from same‑day (in‑person) to 6 weeks (mail‑in during peak periods)[reference:1]. Federal apostilles from the U.S. Department of State cost a flat $20 per document[reference:2].
State‑by‑State Apostille Fee and Processing Time Comparison
The table below summarizes current (July 2026) apostille fees and standard mail‑in processing times for all 50 states. Fees are subject to change, so always verify with the official Secretary of State website before submitting your application.
| State | Standard Fee | Standard Mail‑In Processing | Expedited / In‑Person Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $20 | 5–10 business days[reference:3] | Same‑day in‑person (Sacramento / LA)[reference:4] |
| Texas | $15[reference:5] | ~10 business days[reference:6] | Same‑day / 24–48 hrs walk‑in[reference:7] |
| New York | $10[reference:8] | 4–6 weeks[reference:9] | In‑person available (1–2 hrs)[reference:10] |
| Florida | $10–$20[reference:11] | 5–7 business days[reference:12] | Expedited available |
| Illinois | $2[reference:13] | 4–6 weeks[reference:14] | Limited |
| Pennsylvania | $5[reference:15] | 2–3 weeks[reference:16] | Same‑day walk‑in[reference:17] |
| Ohio | $5[reference:18] | 2–3 business days[reference:19] | Among fastest in U.S.[reference:20] |
| Massachusetts | $6[reference:21] | 5–10 business days[reference:22] | Same‑day (hand‑delivery)[reference:23] |
| Washington | $15[reference:24] | 5–10 business days[reference:25] | Expedited available |
| Michigan | Varies | 7–10 business days[reference:26] | Expedited available |
| Georgia | Varies | 5–7 business days[reference:27] | Expedited available |
| North Carolina | $10[reference:28] | 5–7 business days[reference:29] | Same‑day walk‑in[reference:30] |
| Virginia | $10[reference:31] | ~7 business days[reference:32] | Same‑day (Richmond)[reference:33] |
| Mississippi | ~$5[reference:34] | 1–2 weeks[reference:35] | Limited |
Note: Fees and processing times are based on publicly available information as of July 2026 and may change. Always confirm current rates on the official Secretary of State website for the state that issued your document.
Federal Apostille Fees and Processing Times
If your document is issued by a federal agency — such as an FBI background check, USCIS approval, or federal court document — you must obtain the apostille from the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C., not from a state Secretary of State.
| Agency | Fee | Standard Processing | Expedited Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. Department of State | $20 per document[reference:37] | 3–6 weeks[reference:38] | Limited (courier services may expedite)[reference:39] |
Federal apostilles generally take longer than state apostilles due to higher volume and fewer expedite options. Plan accordingly if your document falls into this category.
Factors That Affect Processing Times
Even within the same state, processing times can vary based on several factors. Understanding these variables will help you set realistic expectations.
- Submission method: Mail‑in submissions are slower than in‑person or courier deliveries. Walk‑in service, where available, can often provide same‑day or next‑day turnaround[reference:40].
- Seasonal volume: Peak periods (summer, pre‑holiday) can add 1–2 weeks to standard processing times[reference:41].
- Document errors: Incorrect notarization, missing signatures, or expired commissions will result in rejection and restart the entire timeline[reference:42].
- Return shipping: The time your document spends in transit to and from the Secretary of State's office is not included in processing estimates. Use expedited shipping with tracking to minimize this[reference:43].
Common Mistakes That Increase Costs and Delays
Avoiding these common errors can save you both time and money when applying for an apostille.
- Applying to the wrong state: The apostille must come from the state where the document was notarized or issued, not your state of residence[reference:46].
- Submitting photocopies: Only original certified copies or notarized originals are accepted. Photocopies will be rejected[reference:47].
- Missing the return envelope: Most states require you to include a self‑addressed, pre‑paid return envelope with tracking. Omitting this will delay your document's return[reference:48].
- Incorrect payment: Checks must be made payable to the exact office name (e.g., "Secretary of State") and for the correct amount. Some states do not accept credit cards[reference:49].
- Expired notary commission: If your document was notarized, verify that the notary's commission was active on the date of notarization. An expired commission will cause rejection[reference:50].
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much does a state apostille typically cost?
A: State apostille fees typically range from $5 to $30 per document, with most states charging between $10 and $20[reference:51]. Some states, like Illinois ($2) and Ohio ($5), are on the lower end, while others may charge slightly more.
Q: How long does it take to get an apostille by mail?
A: Standard mail‑in processing ranges from 5 business days (in fast states like Ohio) to 6 weeks (in high‑volume states like New York and California during peak periods)[reference:52][reference:53]. Always add transit time to and from the Secretary of State's office.
Q: Can I get an apostille the same day?
A: Yes, in many states. States that offer walk‑in counter service — including Texas, Florida, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and California — can process apostilles same‑day or within 24–48 hours[reference:54][reference:55]. You must appear in person with your documents and payment.
Q: Do I need to pay separately for expedited processing?
A: Some states charge an additional fee for expedited processing (e.g., New York charges +$20 for expedite)[reference:56]. Others, like California, do not charge extra for in‑person service but require you to appear at a specific office[reference:57]. Private apostille services also charge expedite fees.
Q: What is the fee for a federal apostille from the U.S. Department of State?
A: The U.S. Department of State charges a flat fee of $20 per document for federal apostilles[reference:58]. Processing takes approximately 3 to 6 weeks for standard service[reference:59].
Q: Are fees and processing times the same for all documents in a state?
A: Generally, yes — the fee and processing time are based on the document type (state vs. federal) and the service level you choose, not on the specific content of the document. However, some states charge different fees for documents certified by a Clerk of Court versus those from vital records[reference:60].
Q: Can I check the status of my apostille application online?
A: Some states provide online tracking portals (e.g., California, Texas). Others do not. If your state does not offer online tracking, use the tracking number from your return shipping label to monitor when your document leaves the state office[reference:61].