Frequently Asked Questions
Apostille, notarization & translation — FAQ
Answers about apostille certification, notarization, document authentication, consular legalization, certified translation, and visa document preparation with Seoul Apostille.
Apostille
What is an apostille?
An apostille is a stamp from Korea's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) confirming a Korean document is genuine, so it can be accepted by another country that's part of the Hague Apostille Convention. It does not translate the document.
How long does an apostille take?
Standard MOFA apostille processing is typically 3–5 business days once the correct document is ready. Rush handling may be available depending on the document and agent — ask when you send your inquiry.
Which documents can be apostilled?
Common examples: birth certificate (기본증명서), marriage certificate, criminal record certificate, diploma/transcript, and business registration certificate. Other Korean-issued public documents can usually be apostilled too — ask your agent if you're not sure about a specific document.
Do I need a translation as well?
An apostille only certifies that the document is authentic — it is not a translation. Most destination countries also require a certified translation of the document, which is a separate service.
Notarization & translation
What documents can be notarized?
Affidavits, powers of attorney, consent letters, and contracts are the most common documents notarized through the platform.
Do you provide certified translations?
Yes. Certified Korean–English translation is available for birth, marriage, divorce, and family register certificates, diplomas and transcripts, medical records, and business documents.
Who actually performs the notarization or translation?
An individually licensed Korean administrative agent (행정사) — not an anonymous back office. Review the agent's license and credentials on their profile before you send any documents.
Consular legalization & visa documents
What is consular legalization, and when do I need it instead of an apostille?
Countries that haven't joined the Hague Apostille Convention — including the UAE, Vietnam, and Saudi Arabia — require consular legalization instead of an apostille. The process goes through Korea's MOFA and then that country's embassy or consulate in Korea.
Can you help prepare documents for a Korean visa application?
Yes — document preparation support is available for spouse, student, and work visa applications, including gathering and formatting the supporting documents Korean immigration requires.
Working with Seoul Apostille
How do I get started?
Browse the licensed administrative agents on the platform, check their credentials, and send an inquiry describing your document and which country it's going to.
How much does it cost?
Pricing depends on the document, the service (apostille, notarization, legalization, or translation), and the destination country. The agent you contact will quote you directly once they know the details.
Do I need to visit in person?
Most services can be handled remotely by mail or courier. In-person appointments are also available depending on the agent and the document — ask when you send your inquiry.
Is Seoul Apostille a government office?
No. Seoul Apostille (Reg. No. 215-03-56446) is a directory connecting you with individually licensed private administrative agents (행정사) — it is not the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or a Korean government office.