When using documents from Geneva abroad, you may need an apostille or complete legalisation, depending on the destination country of your document. These authentication procedures ensure your Geneva documents are recognised worldwide—apostilles and legalisation for international documents require a specific process.
What is an apostille?
An apostille is a standardised certificate issued under the Hague Convention of 5 October 1961 that authenticates the signature, capacity of the signer, and any official seals on your document. It does not verify the document’s content; it only confirms its official status.
Geneva apostilles and legalisation procedures
In Geneva, the Service de l’état civil et des légalisations (part of the Office cantonal de la population et des migrations – OCPM) handles all document authentication requests.
Types of authentication available
Apostille: For documents destined for Hague Convention member countries – this is a simplified form of legalisation.
Full legalisation: Required for countries that are not members of the Hague Convention – a more complex procedure.
How to apply in Geneva
Online: Submit your request through the Geneva State website or by contacting the legalisation service directly.
By post: Send documents to: Office cantonal de la population et des migrations Service état civil et légalisations Case postale 2265, 1211 Genève 2
In-person: Schedule an appointment by emailing [email protected] to visit the service counter.
Required documents for Geneva
- Original official document requiring authentication
- Valid identification
- Information about the destination country (procedures vary by destination)
Costs and processing times
- Fee: CHF 30-33 per document
- Processing time: 3-5 working days
- Applications can be made online, by post, or by appointment
Documents that may require apostilles or legalisation
Common Geneva documents requiring authentication include:
- Birth, marriage, and death certificates
- Notarial acts and powers of attorney
- Court documents and legal judgments
- Educational diplomas and transcripts
- Criminal record extracts
- Business registration certificates
Certified translations
Documents translated by sworn translators recognised by Geneva authorities do not require additional apostilles, as the sworn translator’s certification is officially recognised. For certified translation services, visit our services page.
Professional legalisation services
For convenience, several companies in Geneva offer document legalisation services. These professional services handle the entire process on your behalf, collecting your documents, submitting them to the OCPM Service de l’état civil et des légalisations, and returning the apostilled documents to you. This service involves additional fees beyond the official CHF 30-33 charge, but can save time and effort, particularly for businesses or individuals who cannot visit the office during working hours.
Conclusion
Whether you need an apostille or full legalisation for your Geneva document depends on the destination country’s membership in the Hague Convention. Contact the OCPM Service de l’état civil et des légalisations for specific guidance on your requirements.