Which body is responsible?

The responsible body depends on the original signature on the document. A Zurich civil status document generally goes to Zurich, a Bern notary signature to Bern, and a federal document to the Federal Chancellery.

Have postal submission confirmed in advance

Many cantonal offices accept postal items, but the requirements differ: cover letter, destination country, return address, telephone or email, advance payment, stamped reply envelope and original document may be required. That's why you should ask briefly by phone or email before shipping.

What belongs in the cover letter

Specify the destination country, list of documents, desired apostille or legalization, return address, contact person, telephone number, email and whether multiple originals are required. Only send originals in a traceable manner and keep scans for your records.

If the list does not match the certificate

Some cantons delegate authentication to ID offices, population services or prefectures. The Federal Chancellery list is therefore a list of contact points, not always a literal list of all State Chancellery counters.

Step by step: Obtain an apostille

  • Ask recipients abroad for exact requirements: apostille or legalization, language, topicality, original or copy.
  • Check where the original signature came from: canton, municipality, notary, court, federal government or foreign country.
  • If necessary, obtain pre-certification first, for example for passport copies, private signatures, company signatures or diplomas.
  • Contact the responsible cantonal office and ask whether submission by post is possible.
  • Attach original document, destination country, return address, contact details and proof of payment as specified.
  • Once received, check whether the apostille needs to be translated yourself.