Most apostille problems are timing problems. An FBI check ordered too early is out of date by the appointment. A birth certificate ordered too late is still at the state when the consulate wants it. And a country outside the Apostille Convention adds weeks for its embassy that nobody planned for.
This planner works backwards from your date. For each document it gives two things: the earliest date it can be issued and still be accepted, and the latest date to start on it so the apostille, any embassy stage, translation and shipping all fit.
At a glance
Plan my documents
How the plan is worked out
- Freshness. Each document has a usual maximum age at the appointment, adjusted for the country where we know its rule. See document validity by country.
- Getting the document. Ordering a certified copy, getting an FBI check, or signing before a notary, at realistic durations.
- Certification. A state or federal apostille, using our current processing times, plus about three weeks for embassy legalization outside the Convention.
- Translation and shipping, if you need them, plus a few days’ margin.
Estimates sit at the slow end on purpose. If your plan says a window does not fit, talk to us: there is often a faster route.
Apostille Deadline Planner: common questions
How early can I order my FBI background check?
It depends on the country. Many accept a check up to three to six months old at the appointment. The planner uses the country’s rule where we know it and 90 days otherwise.
What if the planner says my window does not fit?
The document has to be issued too close to the appointment for the certification to finish in time. Rush service, uploading instead of mailing, or moving the appointment can all help. Ask us.
Does it work for countries that need legalization?
Yes. For a country outside the Apostille Convention it adds about three weeks for the embassy stage. See embassy legalization.
Ready to get started?
Have your plan? Start your order and we will keep to its dates.
Related: Document validity by country · Processing times · Visa guides · Consulate finder