Recognizing US state documents abroad
An Apostille is a method of certifying a document for use in another country (pursuant
to the 1961 Hague Convention).
Why it’s important
An apostillized copy of the Articles of Incorporation
or Articles of Organization is often required to open a bank account in another
country for a US-incorporated business. Also, some countries require a Certified
Copy of the Articles of Incorporation/Organization with an appropriate gold
seal instead of an apostillized copy.
Features & benefits
With certification by Apostille or gold seal,
your Articles of Incorporation (for corporations) or Articles of Organization
(for limited liability companies) are entitled to recognition in the country of
intended use, and no additional certification or legalization by the embassy or
consulate of the foreign country where the document is to be used is required.
Key Benefits
For
business owners not located in the United States
but who are incorporating in the United States,
the local governments typically require proof of the US incorporation. Certification by Apostille
or gold seal is universally recognized and accepted.
Keep in Mind
While
an apostillized copy of a company’s incorporation documents may be one
requirement international banks have in order to open a bank account for a
business incorporated in the United
States, it is probably not the only
requirement. Be sure to check with banks under consideration for a list of
required materials.