Where do I get an apostille in Kentucky?

The Kentucky Secretary of State's authentications office issues apostilles for documents produced in Kentucky, such as birth and marriage certificates and notarized documents. Federal documents follow a separate US Department of State route.

How long does a Kentucky apostille take?

Mail processing typically runs a few weeks, and in-person service is usually much faster. Build in extra time before your consulate appointment, and remember that sworn translation happens after the apostille.

Does my Kentucky apostille need a sworn translation?

Yes. Spain requires a traducción jurada by a MAEC-certified translator. Apostille first, then translate, because the translation must cover the apostille itself.

What about my FBI background check?

An FBI Identity History Summary is a federal document apostilled by the US Department of State, not by any state office. We coordinate the federal and state routes together so nothing stalls your application.

Apostille for Spain from Kentucky (2026 Process and Costs)

Apostille in Kentucky: The Short Answer

The Kentucky Apostille Office

Apostilles for Kentucky documents are issued by the Kentucky Secretary of State (or equivalent authentications office). Processing times and fees change, so confirm the current figures on the official state page before you mail anything. We keep a live record for every state and will pull your exact office details on your call.

Verify all figures against the official source before relying on them. Government fees and processing times change without much notice.

Which Documents Need Which Route

State-issued documents (birth certificates, marriage certificates, and notarized copies of diplomas) are apostilled by Kentucky. Documents issued by a federal agency are apostilled by the US Department of State. Most American visa applicants need both routes, which is why sequencing matters.

FBI Background Check (Federal)

Your FBI Identity History Summary is federal. It is apostilled by the US Department of State in Washington, DC, not by Kentucky. Order the FBI check early through an approved channeler, because it is often the longest pole in the tent.

Order: Apostille First, Then Sworn Translation

The sequence is fixed. Apostille the original, then have a MAEC-certified translator produce the traducción jurada, because the sworn translation must cover the apostille text as well. Translating first means paying twice.

Have us coordinate your Kentucky apostilles

Apostille for Spain from Kentucky (2026: Process, Costs, Timelines)