Electronic apostille: features, differences and opinions of the first users

An electronic apostille is a digital equivalent of a traditional stamp that certifies the authenticity of documents for international use. It was introduced to simplify and speed up the process of document legalization in the context of digitalization.

Key Features of Electronic Apostille

1. Digital signature: An electronic apostille contains a unique digital signature that confirms the authenticity of the document.
2. Convenience and speed: Obtaining an electronic apostille is much faster and more convenient, as it does not require personal presence.
3. Variety of documents: An electronic apostille can be placed on educational documents, legal acts, medical certificates and other types of documents.
4. Online check: The authenticity of an electronic apostille can be easily verified through specialized online services, which reduces the risk of fraud.

Differences from a traditional apostille

• Format: A traditional apostille is a physical stamp on a paper document, while an e-apostille is a digital file.
• Availability: The electronic apostille is not available in all countries. Its implementation began in 2007 and is currently used by 32 countries out of 120 members of the Hague Convention.

Opinions of the first users

The first users note the following advantages and disadvantages of the electronic apostille:

• Advantages:
• Acceleration of the document legalization process.
• Convenience of receiving and verifying the authenticity of documents online.
• Reduced paper and postage costs.
• Disadvantages:
• Not all countries recognize electronic apostilles, which can cause difficulties when using documents abroad.
• In some countries, the level of technological development does not allow for the necessary protection against fraud.

The electronic apostille represents an important step towards simplifying international document flow, but its implementation and recognition require time and adaptation of legislation in different countries.

Online resources for obtaining an electronic apostille

• Ukraine: Ministry of Justice of Ukraine guide.diia.gov.ua, apostille.in.ua
• Russia: State Services buhguru.com