If you’ve ever needed to use a U.S. document abroad, you’ve probably heard the word apostille. But what happens when the document you need to authenticate is a copy of your passport? Can it be notarized — and can that notarized copy then receive an apostille? The short answer is yes, and this guide walks you through exactly how it works.
📄 What Does “Notarize a Passport Copy” Actually Mean?
A notary public cannot certify that a copy is a true and accurate reproduction of an original document in all states — but in many states, a notary can certify a copy of certain documents, including passports, as a “true copy.” This is called a copy certification.
When a notary certifies your passport photocopy, they are attesting: “I, the notary, have compared this photocopy to the original document presented to me, and it is a true and complete reproduction.” Their official signature and seal are then placed on the copy.
Copy certification laws vary by state. Not every state allows notaries to certify copies of documents. Hannah Notarizes LLC can advise you on whether this service is available for your state and situation — including via Remote Online Notarization (RON).
🌐 What Is an Apostille — and Why Do You Need One?
An apostille is an official government certificate that authenticates the origin of a public document so it will be recognized in another country. The apostille system is governed by the Hague Convention of 1961, and over 120 countries participate in it.
Once a document has been notarized, the next step is to submit it to the Secretary of State’s office (or another designated authority) to receive the apostille. This apostille is then attached to your notarized passport copy, making it legally valid for international use.
- Applying for residency, work, or study visas abroad
- Getting married in a foreign country
- Opening a foreign bank account that requires ID verification
- International business registration or incorporation
- Immigration and citizenship applications
- Enrolling in a foreign university or school
🔄 The Step-by-Step Process
Here’s how the passport copy notarization and apostille process works, from start to finish:
-
Make a Clear, Complete Copy of Your Passport
Copy the photo/data page of your passport (and any relevant visa or entry stamp pages if required). The copy must be legible and complete — no cut-off edges. -
Present the Original & Copy to a Notary
You’ll need to show both the original passport and the photocopy to the notary, who will compare the two. This can be done in-person or via a secure Remote Online Notarization (RON) session — exactly what Hannah Notarizes LLC specializes in. -
Notary Certifies the Copy
The notary will affix their signature, stamp, and a certification statement to the copy, confirming it is a true reproduction of the original document they reviewed. -
Submit for Apostille
The notarized copy is submitted to the appropriate Secretary of State’s office for an apostille. If you work with Hannah Notarizes, we handle this entire step for you. -
Receive Your Completed Document
Your apostilled passport copy is returned to you — ready for use in any Hague Convention country. Documents can be delivered digitally or via secure shipping worldwide.
Left: Remote Online Notarization lets you verify your identity from anywhere in the world. Right: Your apostilled documents will be accepted in 120+ countries.
💡 Does Every Country Accept a Notarized Passport Copy with Apostille?
Most countries that are signatories to the Hague Convention will accept a notarized and apostilled copy of your passport as valid proof of identity. However, requirements vary by country and purpose. Some countries or institutions may still require the original passport in addition to the certified copy.
Before submitting your documents, confirm the specific requirements with the receiving country’s embassy, consulate, or the institution requesting the documents. Hannah Notarizes LLC can help you navigate country-specific requirements and ensure your documents are prepared correctly the first time.
Some countries — particularly those not in the Hague Convention — require a different legalization process (typically embassy legalization, also called “chain authentication”). Always verify the destination country’s requirements before beginning the process.
🖥️ Can This Be Done Remotely?
Yes! Through Remote Online Notarization (RON), you can have your passport copy certified by a commissioned notary over a secure video call — no matter where you are in the world.
At Hannah Notarizes LLC, we’ve helped clients across the globe get their U.S. documents authenticated without ever having to travel to a notary office or a U.S. consulate. You simply:
- Book a virtual appointment online
- Join a secure video session and present your original passport & copy
- Receive your certified, notarized copy digitally
- We submit for apostille and deliver the completed documents to you
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can a notary certify a copy of a passport in all 50 states?
No — copy certification laws vary by state. Some states do not permit notaries to certify copies of certain government-issued documents. Contact Hannah Notarizes to find out what’s available for your state.
Do I need my original passport present for notarization?
Yes. To certify a copy, the notary must compare the photocopy against the original document. You’ll need to present both during your notarization session — including via RON video call.
How long does the apostille process take?
Processing times vary by state and workload, typically ranging from a few business days to several weeks. Expedited processing is often available. Hannah Notarizes LLC will advise you on realistic timelines and can recommend expedited options when available.
Is a notarized passport copy the same as a certified copy from the government?
No. A notarized copy is certified by a notary public, not by the issuing government agency. For some purposes, a government-certified copy may be required — but for many international uses, a notarized copy with apostille is perfectly acceptable.
What if my destination country is not in the Hague Convention?
Countries outside the Hague Convention require a different legalization process. Reach out to Hannah Notarizes LLC — we can guide you through the appropriate authentication chain for your destination country.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you’re preparing for a move, marriage, visa application, or business abroad — Hannah Notarizes LLC handles the entire notarization and apostille process for you, from anywhere in the world.
💼 Why Choose Hannah Notarizes LLC?
- Global accessibility — Available to clients worldwide via Remote Online Notarization (RON)
- Fast turnaround — Efficient document processing to meet your deadlines
- Comprehensive service — From notarization to apostille delivery, one trusted source
- Personal guidance — Clear communication and transparent updates every step of the way
- Expert knowledge — We stay up to date on country-specific requirements so you don’t have to
Learn more about all our services at www.hannahnotarizes.com, or explore other articles on this blog including our guides on Apostille Services & Global Document Authentication and Remote Notary Services.
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