If you’ve ever tried to search online for apostille services, you may have run into some funny versions of the word: apostles, applesteels, appostilles, aposteals, and even apple steals! Don’t worry, you’re not alone.

Apostilles are one of the most commonly misspelled terms in the notary world. So, what exactly is an apostille (no extra “p” or “apple” required)?

An apostille is a form of international certification. It proves that your document, such as a birth certificate, marriage license, or power of attorney, has been properly notarized or issued, and is valid in another country that’s part of the Hague Apostille Convention.

That means if you need to use a U.S. document in places like Spain, France, Mexico, or Japan, you’ll likely need an apostille. Not an apostle, not an applesteel, just a simple stamp or certificate that makes your paperwork recognized abroad.

Why it matters

When you’re handling something as important as legal documents, spelling doesn’t matter nearly as much as getting the process right. That’s where a trusted notary and apostille facilitator comes in.

So whether you came here searching for “apostles,” “applesteels,” or the correctly spelled apostille, you’re in the right place. Buenaventura Signings will make sure your documents are handled properly from start to finish.

Apostille FAQ: Clearing Up Common Mix-Ups

–What is an applesteel?

Nothing official! “Applesteel” is just a common misspelling of apostille. If you searched for applesteel, you’re probably looking for apostille services.

–Is an apostle the same as an apostille?

Not at all. An apostle is a religious figure. An apostille is a certificate that verifies a document for international use. They sound similar, but they’re very different things!

–What is an appostille?

This is another frequent typo. The correct spelling is apostille (only one “p”).

–Do I need an apostille or a notarization?

They’re different. A notarization proves your signature on a document is valid within the U.S. An apostille is what makes that notarized document valid in another country.

–Why do people call it an applesteel or aposteal?

Because “apostille” isn’t a word we use often in everyday English—it’s French in origin. So, people hear it and spell it how it sounds.

–Where can I get an apostille?

Right here! As a notary and apostille facilitator, I help clients in Oxnard and all Ventura County handle the process from start to finish so their documents are accepted internationally without hassle.