An e-apostille doesn’t differ much visually from a traditional paper apostille; it’s only the format.
The digital e-apostille “looks” the same but slightly differs, like the electronic signature.
Unlike a traditional apostille’s visible embossed stamp characteristic, an e-apostille is an embedded electronic file within a PDF document.
While you cannot ‘see’ an e-apostille in the conventional sense, it comprises several important digital components that define its nature and functionality:
- Digital Signature: An e-apostille includes a digital signature from the issuing authority. This electronic signature is crucial for authenticating the authority’s identity and confirming the document’s validity.
- Issuing Authority Information: It contains detailed information about the authorised body that issued the e-apostille, including their name and contact details.
- Unique Identifying Code: Each e-apostille is assigned a unique code. This code plays a vital role in online verification, allowing authorised entities to confirm the e-apostille’s authenticity.
- Embedded Data: Technical details are embedded within the e-apostille, essential for verification purposes. While these details are not visible to the user, they are critical for confirming the document’s legitimacy.
Regarding its verification, you can’t visually verify an e-apostille within a PDF, but its authenticity and validity can be verified online.
Authorised authorities use specialised systems to check the e-apostille ‘s digital signature and unique identifying code.
These systems ensure that the e-apostille is legitimate and has not been tampered with.
In summary, an e-apostille is a digital entity embedded within a PDF document, characterised by its unique digital components rather than a visible appearance.
Its verification and legitimacy rely on digital methods rather than physical inspection.
