An e-apostille is designed for digital use and cannot be printed.

  • Embedded nature: Unlike traditional stamps or watermarks, an e-apostille is an encrypted file that’s part of the digital document. It’s not a separate element that can be printed; it’s integrated within the digital file.

  • Digital authentication: The real power of an e-apostille lies in its digital features – security elements and digital signatures that are only recognisable and verifiable through electronic means.

  • Security and tamper-proofing: E-apostilles are secure and designed to be tamper-proof. Any attempt to print or modify them could risk damaging the file, potentially invalidating its authenticity.

Given this, it’s important to:

  • Share electronically: The correct way to use an e-apostille is by sharing the entire digital document, including the e-apostille, electronically. Authorities equipped to handle these documents will have the necessary tools to validate them.

  • No need for a physical copy: In situations where e-apostilles are accepted, physical copies are not required. The digital document with the embedded e-apostille is the official document.

If you need a physical record of your document, you need to order a traditional paper-based apostille.  Remember, the e- apostille’s effectiveness is tied to its digital format.

In summary, e-apostilles are integral parts of digital documents designed for electronic verification and cannot be replicated or validated in printed form. For official purposes, sharing the digital version is always the best practice.