How to Get Your University Diploma Notarized and Apostilled


Spain will not accept a foreign diploma unless it is first legalized, which in this case means two things: notarization and then an apostille. This article will walk you through the entire process.

STEP-BY-STEP PROCESS

→ Step 1: Obtain an Official Copy of Your Degree

Contact your university registrar or records office.

Request an official copy of your diploma (or an official transcript), showing:

  • Your full name
  • The university name
  • Graduation year
  • Program or major

Explain that you need the document notarized and apostilled for a Spanish visa, so they know to prepare a version suitable for legal use.

→ Step 2: Notarize the Diploma

Option A: Registrar Notarization

Many universities have a notary in the registrar's office who can attach a short statement confirming the authenticity of the diploma. This is the fastest and simplest route, so ask first whether the registrar offers this service.

Option B: External Notarization

If the university cannot notarize the document:

  • Draft an Affidavit of True Copy (see sample below)
  • Take the affidavit, your original diploma, and government ID to a notary public
  • Sign the affidavit in the notary's presence. The notary will stamp and sign, completing the notarization

Sample Affidavit of True Copy:

I, [Your Full Name], born on [Date of Birth], holder of [Passport or ID Number], residing at [Address], declare under oath that the attached document is a true and exact copy of my original diploma issued by [University Name] on [Date of Graduation].

Signed on this [Day] of [Month] [Year] at [City, State].
Signature
Printed Name


Keep the original diploma together with the notarized affidavit and copy.

→ Step 3: Obtain the Apostille

Apply for a Hague apostille from the Secretary of State in the same state where the notarization took place.

Visit the official Secretary of State website to find exact instructions and fees. You will usually need:

  • The notarized diploma packet
  • A completed apostille request form
  • Payment (check, money order, or credit-card form)
  • A prepaid return envelope

Submit the packet online, by mail, or in person if walk-in service is available. Walk-in service is often the quickest option if you live nearby.

FINAL NOTES

When the apostilled diploma comes back, it is ready for an official sworn Spanish translation. If you need help finding a certified translator or have questions about any of the steps above, feel free to reach out.

For more information about the apostille process, you can also check out our FAQ page.

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