Document Decision Guide
Authentication vs. Apostille: Which Do You Need?
The answer depends on two things: what the document is, and where it's going. Use this guide to find your path before booking.
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Is your document American or Hungarian?
American document — to be used in the U.S.
You need a Notary Public.
Wills, deeds, affidavits, contracts, and other American-law documents signed in the presence of a notary. Sylvia can notarize these for $10 per notarial act — the NH state maximum.
Book Notary AppointmentAmerican document — to be used in Hungary
You may need an Apostille, then authentication.
An apostille is issued by the NH Secretary of State (not the consul) and confirms the document is legitimate for use in a country that is a member of the Hague Convention. Hungary is a member, so most American documents destined for Hungary require an apostille first. After apostille, Sylvia can authenticate your signature if required.
NH Secretary of State →Hungarian document — to be used in Hungary
You need Consular Authentication.
Documents produced outside Hungary that need to be recognized by Hungarian authorities — powers of attorney, signature confirmations, certified copies — require consular authentication by the Honorary Consul. Sylvia performs this for $36 per document.
Book AuthenticationHungarian document — to be used in the U.S.
You likely need translation + possible notarization.
Hungarian documents used in American courts or official processes typically require certified translation into English. Contact a certified translator. If signature verification is needed on the translated document, Sylvia can notarize the translator's certification.
Contact for GuidanceGlossary
The Five Terms You Need to Know
Notarization
The process by which a licensed notary public witnesses the signing of a document, verifies the signer's identity, and affixes a seal confirming authenticity. Valid for American documents under American law. Does not give a document legal standing in Hungary without additional steps.
Consular Authentication
The official verification of a signature or copy by an honorary consul, carried under the authority of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations. This is the service that makes a document legally recognized by Hungarian government authorities. Performed by Sylvia for $36/document.
Apostille
A simplified form of authentication under the 1961 Hague Convention. Issued by the government authority of the originating country (in NH: the Secretary of State). An apostille is required for American documents used in Hungary. It is NOT issued by the consul — it is issued by the state.
Copy Authentication
A consular officer certifies that a copy is a true and accurate reproduction of the original. Required when originals cannot be submitted to Hungarian authorities. Performed by Sylvia for $24/page.
Legalization
A chain-of-authentication process for documents used in countries not party to the Hague Convention. Involves multiple layers of verification: notarization → Secretary of State certification → federal authentication → embassy or consulate stamp. Less common for Hungary, which is a Hague member.
Still not sure?
Book a Monday appointment and bring your documents. Sylvia will tell you exactly what you need and perform the service in the same visit if possible.
Honorary consuls do not work in a formal office, nor do they have fixed working hours or schedules. They do not receive compensation from Hungary for their duties and therefore cannot be held accountable for their work schedules.