Guatemala Apostille

The process of document apostille in Guatemala involves several steps and requirements that vary depending on the type of document. This process is carried out so that the documents are legally recognized in other countries. Among the most common documents that require an apostille are certifications issued by RENAP, notarial acts, educational documents, criminal and police record certificates, and other documents issued by various government institutions. Additionally, the procedure can be done online through the Declaraguate portal. Below are the necessary steps and requirements to complete this process.

What is an apostille?

The apostille is a simplified method of document legalization to verify its authenticity internationally. This method is recognized by the countries that are part of the Hague Convention of 1961. In Guatemala, the apostille is managed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Documents that require an apostille

The most frequently apostilled documents include:

• Certifications from the National Registry of Persons (RENAP)
• Notarial acts and public deed testimonies
• Educational documents of all levels
• Criminal and police record certificates
• Documents issued by the Ministry of Public Health and Social Assistance
• University titles and documents
• Certifications issued by government institutions such as the Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Defense, SAT, IGSS, among others.

Prior requirements

Before requesting the apostille, the documents must meet specific requirements, including signatures and seals from various authorities. Below are some examples:

• RENAP certifications: Signature of the Central Registry of Persons of RENAP.
• Notarial acts: Signature of the General Protocol Archive.
• Educational documents: Signature of the Citizen Service Department of the Ministry of Education.
• Criminal record certificates: Signature of the Directorate of the Criminal Records Unit and the Secretariat of the Presidency of the Judicial Branch.
• Police record certificates: Signature of the General Directorate of the National Civil Police and the Registry and Processing Head of the Ministry of Interior.
• Documents issued by the Ministry of Public Health and Social Assistance: Signature of the Executive Secretariat of the Ministry of Health.
• University titles and documents: Signature of the General Secretariat of the corresponding University.
• Documents issued by SAT: Signature of the General Secretariat of the Superintendency of Tax Administration.
• Documents issued by IGSS: Signature of the Secretariat of Management or the Head of the Administrative Department of IGSS.

Steps to obtain an apostille

1. Gather the necessary documents and ensure they meet the specific requirements.
2. Request the apostille through the online portal Declaraguate or go to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
3. Submit the documents to the corresponding offices for verification and signature.
4. Pay any applicable fees, if any.
5. Pick up the apostilled documents once the process is completed.

Additional Information

For more details on specific requirements by document type and complete process instructions, you can consult the official website of Guatemalan government procedures and the attached documents provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The portal Declaraguate also offers a step-by-step guide to complete this process online, making it easier for users who cannot attend in person.

Frequently Asked Questions

What documents can be apostilled?

Official documents issued by public and notarial institutions in Guatemala can be apostilled, including birth, marriage, and death certificates, academic documents, criminal and police record certificates, and notarial documents.

What is the cost of the apostille process?

The cost of the apostille varies depending on the type of document and the issuing entity. It is recommended to check the updated costs on the Declaraguate portal.

How long does the apostille process take?

The processing time can vary, but it generally takes between 3 and 5 business days once all documents have been submitted and all requirements met.

Where can the apostille process be completed?

The process can be completed at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Guatemala or through the online portal Declaraguate.

Is it necessary to go in person to the offices to complete the procedure?

It is not necessary to go in person if you use the online portal. However, some documents may require physical presentation for authenticity verification.

What should I do if my document does not meet the prior requirements for an apostille?

If your document does not meet the prior requirements, you must go to the issuing institution to obtain the necessary signatures and seals before requesting the apostille.

The apostille process in Guatemala is essential for the international validation of documents. By following the steps and meeting the specific requirements, it is possible to obtain the apostille efficiently. The use of online platforms like Declaraguate has simplified this procedure, allowing easier and faster access for Guatemalan citizens.