To obtain an Apostille for documents in Portugal, the process is straightforward, but it’s important to follow the proper steps to ensure that the document is legally valid for use abroad. Portugal is a member of the Hague Convention of 1961, which means documents issued in Portugal can be apostilled for use in other member countries, and vice versa.

Steps to Obtain an Apostille for Documents in Portugal:

1. Prepare Your Document:
   • Documents eligible for an apostille include birth certificates, marriage certificates, death certificates, academic diplomas, notarial documents, and other public documents.
   • If the document is in a foreign language, it may need to be translated into Portuguese, depending on the country where it will be used.
2. Notarization (if applicable):
   • If your document needs to be notarized (for example, a private agreement), you must first have it notarized by a public notary in Portugal before it can be apostilled. However, most public documents, like birth certificates or official records, do not need notarization.
3. Submit the Document for Apostille:
   • The apostille in Portugal is issued by the Conservatória dos Registos Centrais (Central Registry Office), which is part of the Instituto dos Registos e do Notariado (Institute of Registers and Notaries).
   • You can submit the document either in person or online. Portugal offers an online service for apostille requests, which is efficient and convenient.
4. Required Documents:
   • The original document to be apostilled.
   • Valid identification, such as a passport or national ID card (if applying in person).
   • If you are using a representative (e.g., a lawyer or another person), you may need to provide a notarized authorization letter granting them the authority to request the apostille on your behalf.
5. Apostille Process:
   • Once your document is submitted, the relevant authorities will verify the authenticity of the document and attach the apostille certification.
   • The apostille is typically a stamp or a certificate attached to the document that authenticates its origin for international use.
6. Fees:
   • The cost of obtaining an apostille in Portugal is usually low. It can vary slightly, but the standard fee is typically around €10 to €20 per document.
7. Receiving the Apostilled Document:
   • Once the apostille is processed, the document is ready for use abroad. If you applied online, you may receive the apostilled document by mail or through a downloadable version. In-person applications can be picked up at the office or mailed to you.

Online Apostille Request:

Portugal offers an online service where you can apply for an apostille without needing to go to the office in person. You can use the official portal for this service, which is available in Portuguese and English.

Important Notes:

• Translation: If your document is not in Portuguese, it might need to be translated into Portuguese, depending on the country where it will be used.
• Hague Convention Countries: The apostille is only necessary for countries that are signatories of the Hague Convention. If the country you’re sending the document to is not a member, you will need to go through consular legalization instead of an apostille.
• Consular Legalization: If you’re sending a document to a country that is not a Hague Convention member, you will need to contact the embassy or consulate of that country in Portugal for legalization.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your document will be legally accepted in countries that recognize the apostille process.