Apostille & Embassy Legalization in Japan

One-stop support for apostille, consular legalization, translation, notary, MOFA, and international delivery.

Apostille from JPY 27,500
Consular Legalization from JPY 55,000

We determine the correct procedure based on your destination country and handle the entire process on your behalf.

  • ✓ Translation / Notary / MOFA / Embassy
  • ✓ Certified Translation available
  • ✓ Full process coordination
  • ✓ International shipping (EMS / DHL)
TAKE THE NEXT STEP

Not sure which procedure is required? We review your documents and guide you to the correct process.

International clients are welcome. We can also arrange EMS or DHL delivery after completion.

Apostille / Attestation example
Japan Apostille Center – Apostille & Consular Legalization Specialist
Apostille from JPY 27,500 / Consular Legalization from JPY 55,000
We handle the entire process and determine the correct procedure for your destination country.
✓ Translation / Notary / MOFA / Embassy
✓ Full process coordination
✓ Certified Translation available
✓ International shipping (EMS / DHL)
sakura_castle

Why choose Japan Apostille Center?
Reasons to work with us

standlogo
📑
01
A Specialized Structure Focused on Apostille and Consular Legalization
Established based on extensive practical experience in handling international documentation through years of immigration and visa-related work for foreign nationals as an administrative scrivener office specializing in international services. By understanding both the institutional background and practical operations of each country, we design the most appropriate authentication route, and maintain a high level of expertise and consistent quality by specializing in the document authentication field.
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02
Expertise in Procedures of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Embassies/Consulates
The practical requirements and procedures for Apostille and consular legalization vary by country. Even the application method differs depending on the country, such as postal application, in-person submission, or online application. Based on practical operations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and foreign embassies, we provide comprehensive support from determining document eligibility to selecting the appropriate application method and translation approach.
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03
One-Stop Service Covering Translation, Notarization, and Authentication
We provide translation into various languages including English, Portuguese, Chinese, Vietnamese, Thai, Russian, Spanish, Dutch, and Italian, along with certified translation, notarization procedures, Ministry of Foreign Affairs authentication, applications to embassies and consulates, and international delivery after authentication. By handling everything in one place, we reduce the burden of dealing with multiple parties and ensure fast and accurate completion of the authentication process.
04
Proven Track Record Trusted Across Borders
We have handled numerous document authentication cases not only for clients within Japan, but also for individuals and companies residing overseas who contact us directly. In addition to our ability to manage procedures smoothly across time zones and language barriers, we have established a system to collaborate with overseas professionals and partners when necessary. These capabilities have earned us continued trust as a reliable specialist window for cross-border document authentication.

In addition to the four main features of Japan Apostille Center described above, the following outlines the specific benefits you can gain by using our services.

Features of Our Services
Benefits You Receive
01

Pre-check System

We verify in advance the condition of original documents, contents, presence of signatures/seals, and whether supporting documents are required, ensuring that no deficiencies arise at the application stage.

If issues are discovered after submission, reissuance and resubmission may be required, increasing both time and cost. Our pre-check process helps minimize such rework.

Minimization of rework and smoother workflow
02

Process Structuring and Clear Timeline

From the initial stage, we clarify “what is required” and “where time will be needed,” and present the process with clear milestones.

We clarify “which stage you are in” and “what comes next.” Even for time-sensitive cases, this enables a clear outlook on completion timing and makes it easier to manage subsequent procedures following Apostille or consular legalization.

Clarity of process and control over subsequent steps
03

Strict Document Management

As we handle important documents such as certificates and powers of attorney, we always use traceable methods when exchanging documents with clients and related institutions, thereby preventing loss.

Even in procedures requiring original documents, risks such as loss or mix-ups are minimized. Clients are not required to carry important documents outside, helping prevent loss or damage in advance.

Secure handling of important documents and clear traceability
04

Clear Communication and Organized Information

When contacting clients regarding required information and confirmations, we provide clear and accurate guidance. We emphasize communication that makes it easy to understand “what needs to be done now.”

Even in procedures where information can easily become scattered, the need for repeated confirmations is reduced, making decision-making and preparation easier. This ensures a smoother and more stable process.

Reduced communication burden and stable process management
Japan Apostille Center – Apostille & Consular Legalization Specialist
Apostille from JPY 27,500 / Consular Legalization from JPY 55,000
We handle the entire process and determine the correct procedure for your destination country.
✓ Translation / Notary / MOFA / Embassy
✓ Full process coordination
✓ Certified Translation available
✓ International shipping (EMS / DHL)

Documents We Handle

Documents subject to Apostille / consular legalization vary widely. Below are representative examples.
*The required documents and whether authentication is necessary may vary depending on the destination country, receiving authority, and the nature of the document.

Documents (Examples)
Main Purpose (Examples)

Birth Certificate / Family Register (Koseki) / Removed Family Register

Birth registration, marriage, immigration procedures, proof of family relationships, etc.

Birth Registration / Marriage / Immigration

Registration of personal status abroad, proof of family relationships, submission of procedural documents

Marriage Certificate / Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage, etc.

Marriage abroad, spouse visa, family reunification procedures, etc.

Marriage Procedures / Family-Related Visas

Marriage registration, spouse accompaniment, family reunification applications

Residence Certificate / Proof of Address (Residency certificate, etc.)

Visa applications / renewals, proof of address, various registration procedures, etc.

Proof of Address / Residency Procedures

As supporting documents indicating the applicant’s residence status and contact details

Company Register (Commercial Registry) / Corporate Registration Documents

Company establishment, branch registration, bank account opening, submission to business partners, etc.

Corporate Procedures / Finance / Transactions

As proof documents of corporate information required for overseas company-related procedures

Police Certificate (Police certificate, etc.)

Immigration screening, work / residence visas, qualification review, etc.

Immigration Screening / Work / Residence Visas

Cases where they are submitted as supporting documents for background checks and approvals

Diploma / Transcript

Study abroad, student visas, proof of professional qualifications and academic background, etc.

Study / Qualifications / Academic Verification

Examples where they are required as submission documents for educational institutions and employers

Power of Attorney / Affidavit

Granting authority, representation for various applications, confirmation of authority in procedures, etc.

Representation Procedures / Confirmation of Authority

Cases where they are required as documents showing the person’s intent and authority

Contracts / Agreements

International transactions, corporate procedures, compliance matters, etc.

Business Transactions / Various Submissions

Used in situations where proof or submission of contractual relationships is required

Supported Countries

Our center supports Apostille acquisition for documents submitted to Hague Convention member countries (Apostille Convention). We also handle consular legalization for countries requiring embassy legalization (non-Hague countries) after confirming each country’s specific requirements.

○Countries Requiring Consular Legalization (Non-Hague Convention Countries)

For details of consular legalization for each country, please click the country name.

Country Name (Click to view each country-specific page)
Qatar UAE (United Arab Emirates) Kuwait Yemen
Iraq Iran Afghanistan Myanmar
Laos Vietnam Thailand Malaysia
Nepal Sri Lanka Lebanon Jamaica
Egypt Algeria Angola Ethiopia
Eritrea Uganda Nigeria Ghana

*Requirements may vary by country, including document type, whether translation is required, translation guidelines, authentication procedures, and prescribed formats for submission. If you are unsure, please contact us with your destination country and details or scans of the documents.


○Countries Eligible for Apostille (Hague Convention Member Countries)

For these countries and regions, the procedure is generally completed with an Apostille issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.
However, even for Hague Convention member countries, additional consular legalization or translation certification may be required depending on the receiving authority, document type, and translation requirements or handling.

Albania / Andorra / Antigua and Barbuda / Argentina / Armenia / Australia / Austria / Azerbaijan / Bahamas / Bahrain / Bangladesh / Barbados / Belarus / Belgium / Belize / Bolivia / Bosnia and Herzegovina / Botswana / Brazil / Brunei / Bulgaria / Burundi / Canada / Cape Verde / Chile / China / Colombia / Cook Islands / Costa Rica / Croatia / Cyprus / Czech Republic / Denmark / Dominica / Dominican Republic / Ecuador / El Salvador / Estonia / Eswatini / Fiji / Finland / France / Georgia / Germany / Greece / Grenada / Guatemala / Guyana / Honduras / Hong Kong SAR / Hungary / Iceland / India / Indonesia / Ireland / Israel / Italy / Jamaica / Japan / Kazakhstan / Kosovo / Kyrgyzstan / Latvia / Lesotho / Liberia / Liechtenstein / Lithuania / Luxembourg / Macau SAR / Malawi / Malta / Marshall Islands / Mauritius / Mexico / Moldova / Monaco / Mongolia / Montenegro / Morocco / Namibia / Netherlands / New Zealand / Nicaragua / Niue / North Macedonia / Norway / Oman / Palau / Pakistan / Panama / Paraguay / Peru / Philippines / Poland / Portugal / Romania / Russia / Rwanda / Saint Kitts and Nevis / Saint Lucia / Saint Vincent / Samoa / San Marino / São Tomé and Príncipe / Saudi Arabia / Senegal / Serbia / Seychelles / Singapore / Slovakia / Slovenia / South Africa / South Korea / Spain / Suriname / Sweden / Switzerland / Tajikistan / Tonga / Trinidad and Tobago / Tunisia / Turkey / Ukraine / United Kingdom / United States / Uruguay / Uzbekistan / Vanuatu / Venezuela
Japan Apostille Center – Apostille & Consular Legalization Specialist
Apostille from JPY 27,500 / Consular Legalization from JPY 55,000
We handle the entire process and determine the correct procedure for your destination country.
✓ Translation / Notary / MOFA / Embassy
✓ Full process coordination
✓ Certified Translation available
✓ International shipping (EMS / DHL)
man_doc
Apostille / Attestation example
01
💬
STEP 01
Inquiry and Document Review
We confirm the destination country, type of documents, and your preferred timeline.
Based on this, we determine whether an Apostille is sufficient or consular legalization is required, and whether translation or notarization is necessary, and guide you through the required procedures.
contact
02
💳
STEP 02
Agreement and Payment
If there are no issues with the proposed plan, we will finalize the request and begin the procedure.
Payment is generally required in full in advance (this may vary if special services are required).
contract
03
📮
STEP 03
Submission of Required Documents
Documents that require originals must be submitted by mail.
If additional materials or translation drafts are required after review, we will inform you at that stage.
If you request document acquisition services, we will obtain the necessary documents at this stage.
documents
04
🧾
STEP 04
Preparation for Translation, Notarization, and Authentication
If necessary, we prepare translations and certified translations, then proceed to notarization at a notary office, authentication by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and consular legalization at the relevant embassy or consulate.
Procedures are carried out in the appropriate order according to each country’s requirements.
attestation
05
📦
STEP 05
Completion and Delivery
Once the procedures are completed, the authenticated documents will be delivered to you.
If international shipping is required, we will arrange delivery after confirming the shipping method (EMS, DHL, etc.).
delivery
Japan Apostille Center – Apostille & Consular Legalization Specialist
Apostille from JPY 27,500 / Consular Legalization from JPY 55,000
We handle the entire process and determine the correct procedure for your destination country.
✓ Translation / Notary / MOFA / Embassy
✓ Full process coordination
✓ Certified Translation available
✓ International shipping (EMS / DHL)
01
📑
PRICE 01
Apostille
Fees for obtaining an Apostille on Japanese documents to be submitted to Hague Convention member countries.
* If an Apostille is required for translated documents, notarization fees will apply as for private documents.
Public Documents JPY27,500 / per document
Private Documents JPY27,500 + JPY12,500 (notary fee) / per document
Additional Copies JPY11,000 / per additional copy
(For private documents, additional notary fee of JPY12,500 per copy applies)
02
🏛
PRICE 02
Consular Legalization
One-stop service including both MOFA authentication and consular legalization at embassies/consulates.
* If a consular legalization is required for translated documents, notarization fees will apply as for private documents.
Base Fee JPY55,000 / per document + consular fees
(Private documents require additional JPY12,500 notary fee)
Additional Copies
(Same country)
JPY11,000 / per additional copy + consular fees
(Private documents require additional JPY12,500 notary fee)
03
🌍
PRICE 03
Translation (Certified Translation) & Document Retrieval
Fees for translation and document retrieval services required in connection with authentication procedures.
Translation Quoted individually based on content and volume
Certified Translation Quoted individually based on content and volume
Government-issued Documents (Japan) From JPY11,000 / per document
Educational Institutions From JPY11,000 / per document
04
PRICE 04
Return & International Shipping
Fees for domestic return and international shipping after completion of authentication.
Domestic Delivery Included (via Japan Post)
International Shipping (EMS) On request
Express Shipping (DHL) On request
Japan Apostille Center – Apostille & Consular Legalization Specialist
Apostille from JPY 27,500 / Consular Legalization from JPY 55,000
We handle the entire process and determine the correct procedure for your destination country.
✓ Translation / Notary / MOFA / Embassy
✓ Full process coordination
✓ Certified Translation available
✓ International shipping (EMS / DHL)

Certified Translation
Certification of Translation Accuracy

certified translation
Sample of stamp for Certified Translation

We have received feedback from clients who have used the services of the Japan Apostille Center.
Given the nature of document authentication, many clients have highlighted the accuracy of our work, the clarity of the process, and the professionalism of our communication.

We have received feedback from clients who have used the services of the Japan Apostille Center.
Given the nature of document authentication, many clients have highlighted the accuracy of our work, the clarity of the process, and the professionalism of our communication.

01
N
Nelson Atip Nema
November 2025
★★★★★
It was worth paying for the apostille service because the service was done very fast in just one day.
02
R
Remco Rehberg
August 2025
★★★★★
Very much enjoyed working with this company. Very prompt replies to all communication, pro-active and thorough. Will work together again in the future and can highly recommend!
03
H
Hennot BD
May 2025
★★★★★
Read more
The Japan Apostille Center is like a hydration station during a marathon. Sugita-san arranged notarization and signature certification for our bank documents and completely removed our stress.
04
J
J Hancock
May 2025
★★★★★
Sugita-san is one of the most helpful professionals I have worked with. He helped secure important documents for our move to Thailand.
05
J
Jacqueline Sadohara
May 2025
★★★★★
Sugita-san was efficient and competent in handling documentation for an apostille that I needed quickly.
06
C
Claudio Zinetti
March 2025
★★★★★
We appreciate your excellent support and service. Your lawyer office is first class.


※ The above reviews are based on reviews from the Google Business Profile of Japan Apostille Center (operated by SUGITA International Office).
Italy
Italian Consular Legalization (Translation Certification) / Certificate of Acceptance of Birth Registration (Italian Translation)
Thailand
Thailand Consular Legalization / Power of Attorney for Trademark Renewal, Certificate of Company Registration
USA
Apostille for USA / Certificate of Acceptance of Birth Registration
Brazil
Apostille for Brazil / Certificate of Company Registration, Articles of Incorporation, Power of Attorney
China
Apostille for China / Certificate of Company Registration
Colombia
Apostille for Colombia / Pharmaceutical Certificates, Specification Sheets
Philippines
Apostille for Philippines / Income Certificate
UK
Apostille for UK / Family Register (Koseki Tohon)
Mexico
Apostille for Mexico / Pharmaceutical Documents for Major Pharmaceutical Company
Costa Rica
Apostille for Costa Rica / Pharmaceutical Certificate Issued by Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare
Kuwait
Kuwait Consular Legalization / Degree Certificate, Academic Transcript
United Arab Emirates
UAE Consular Legalization / Birth Certificate

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    Frequently Asked Questions
    FAQ

    We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions and answers regarding the services of the Japan Apostille Center.
    If you have any questions that are not listed here, please feel free to contact us, and we will be happy to assist you individually.

    Frequently Asked Questions
    FAQ

    We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions and answers regarding the services of the Japan Apostille Center.
    If you have any questions that are not listed here, please feel free to contact us, and we will be happy to assist you individually.

    Various documents intended for submission overseas may be subject to legalization, including birth certificates, marriage-related documents, residence certificates, certificates of registered matters, contracts, powers of attorney, and degree certificates. However, the actual documents required and whether legalization is necessary will vary depending on the destination country, receiving authority, and the content of the document.
    If the destination country is a member of the Hague Convention, an Apostille issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan is generally sufficient. In contrast, for non-member countries, consular legalization by the embassy or consulate of the destination country is generally required after authentication by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
    We handle Apostille services for major Hague Convention member countries and consular legalization for non-member countries. However, because each country has different systems, required documents, translation requirements, and acceptance conditions, individual confirmation is necessary.
    Yes. We also accept requests from clients residing overseas and provide one-stop support, from confirming the required documents and explaining the procedures to returning the completed documents internationally after the process is finished.
    In many cases, original documents are required for authentication procedures. However, there may be exceptions depending on the type of document and the practice of the receiving authority, so we will confirm in advance and advise you accordingly.
    Whether translation is mandatory depends on the destination country, receiving authority, and type of document. For Japanese-language documents, an English translation, translation certificate, or Certified Translation may be required.
    A Certified Translation refers to a translation bearing a seal or signature from our office or a partner translation company for the purpose of certifying the authenticity of the translation content. Depending on the receiving authority, a regular translation may not be sufficient, and a Certified Translation may be required.
    Yes, it can. However, for private documents, it is generally necessary to proceed with notarization by a notary public first, followed by procedures with the Legal Affairs Bureau, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the embassy. We will guide you on the appropriate method according to the content of the document.
    The required period varies depending on the type and number of documents, whether translation or notarization is required, and the acceptance conditions of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the embassy. The formal estimated processing time will be provided individually after confirming the target documents.
    Fees vary depending on the type and number of target documents, whether the documents are private or official, whether translation or notarization is required, the consular fees of the destination country, and the return shipping method. The formal fee will be quoted individually after confirming the document details.
    Yes. We offer document collection services for documents issued by Japanese government offices and educational institutions such as universities. Please note that an original power of attorney bearing the applicant’s handwritten signature is required for collection services.
    Yes, we can. Our office handles the entire process on your behalf, including application to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and application to and collection from embassies and consulates. You do not need to visit the counter yourself on a weekday.
    Yes. In addition to domestic return delivery, we also support overseas return delivery by EMS, DHL, and other methods. We will guide you according to the destination country and delivery method.
    First, please send us scan data or photos of the target documents, along with the destination country, receiving authority, and purpose of use, via the quotation request form. After reviewing the details, we will inform you of the necessary procedures, estimated cost, and processing time.

    Greeting
    Director's Message

    Director Sugita
    SUGITA Masakazu
    Director, Japan Apostille Center
    Representative Administrative Scrivener, Immigration Lawyer SUGITA International Office

    Thank you very much for visiting the website of the Japan Apostille Center.

    Our center is operated by Immigration Lawyer SUGITA International Office(行政書士スギタ国際事務所). Our office has been engaged in a wide range of international services, primarily focusing on immigration and residency-related matters. Through this work, we have handled numerous cases involving apostille and consular legalization, which are essential procedures for using Japanese documents overseas, and have gained extensive practical experience in this field.

    However, authentication procedures vary depending on the destination country and the type of document, and they are not always easy for individuals to understand. Therefore, in order to provide more specialized and focused support for authentication services, we have established a structure in which the Japan Apostille Center operates separately from SUGITA International Office, which handles immigration-related services.

    At our center, we carefully guide each client through the authentication procedures required for documents issued in Japan to be properly used overseas, based on the specific circumstances of each case. Even if you are unsure about the type of procedure required or which documents are necessary, we will review your situation and provide clear and easy-to-understand explanations.

    If you have any concerns or questions when using Japanese documents overseas, please feel free to contact us at any time.

    Below are selected client reviews and case studies showing how we assist overseas clients with Apostille and legalization (attestation) procedures in Japan, all handled online by certified professionals.

    N
    Nelson Atip Nema
    November 2025
    ★★★★★
    It was worth paying for the apostille service because the service was done very fast in just one day..
    R
    Remco Rehberg
    August 2025
    ★★★★★
    Very much enjoyed working with this company. Very prompt replies to all communication, pro-active and thorough. Will work together again in the future and can highly recommend!
    H
    Hennot BD
    May 2025
    ★★★★★
    Read full review
    The Japan Apostille Center is like a hydration station during a marathon, or a warm kotatsu during a snowstorm. Recently, a family member and I fell into a quandary while trying to close foreign bank accounts. We needed our bank closure documents notarized, and we needed legal confirmations (or apostille guarantees) of our signatures. At my wits end, I found the Japan Apostille Center through a Google search and contacted Sugita-san, and his services proved to be excellent. Patient, diligent, frank, kind, polite, friendly, attentive to detail, thorough, and prompt in his email responses, Sugita-san was easy to correspond with, easy to approach with questions and clarifications, open to providing explanations when I got confused, and clear when offering guidance and instructions. He arranged for our bank documents to be notarized and prepared declaration letters legally confirming our signatures, completely eliminating our anxiety and stress. Excellent services like this are what we like paying for. Thank you, Sugita-san and the Japan Apostille Center, for your work and your efforts! Working with you was fun and educational, and when my family or I am in need of legal assistance that is within your scope of expertise, we will surely contact you again! Take care, and may God bless the work of your hands!
    The Japan Apostille Center is like a hydration station during a marathon, or a warm kotatsu during a snowstorm. Recently, a family member and I fell into a quandary while trying to close foreign bank accounts. We needed our bank closure documents notarized, and we needed legal confirmations (or apostille guarantees) of our signatures. At my wits end, I found the Japan Apostille Center through a Google search and contacted Sugita-san, and his services proved to be excellent. Patient, diligent, frank, kind, polite, friendly, attentive to detail...
    J
    J Hancock
    May 2025
    ★★★★★
    Read full review
    Sugita-san is by far one the most helpful professionals I've had the pleasure of working with. He was able to help secure two very vital documents we needed to move to Thailand with. One of them was our marriage certification authentication with the Thai Consulate. I'm beyond grateful for all of the support we received these last few months. I would be happy to recommend and utilize him again.
    Sugita-san is by far one the most helpful professionals I've had the pleasure of working with. He was able to help secure two very vital documents we needed to move to Thailand with. One of them was our marriage certification authentication with the Thai Consulate. I'm beyond grateful for all of the support we received these last few months...
    J
    Jacqueline Sadohara
    May 2025
    ★★★★★
    Immigration Lawyer Sugita san was efficient and competent in handling documentation for an apostille that I needed quickly. I highly recommend other foreigners to use this firm for legal documents and advice pertaining to the Japan government.
    C
    Claudio Zinetti
    March 2025
    ★★★★★
    Read full review
    Dear Sugita-san
    Yesterday we received the document, We appreciate your excellent support, service and work.
    If we need again some support for other issues in Japan or friend from us we give them your address.
    We hope to meet each other in Japan, Thailand or Switzerland and then you and your Accompaniment are invited for dinner.
    Your Lawyer Office is first class
    Thank you and best regards
    Claudio Zinetti & Chanthakarn Kamkla
    Dear Sugita-san — Yesterday we received the document. We appreciate your excellent support, service and work. If we need again some support for other issues in Japan or friend from us we give them your address. We hope to meet each other in Japan, Thailand or Switzerland...
    The reviews above are excerpts from posts submitted to the Google Business Profile of Immigration Lawyer SUGITA International Office (行政書士スギタ国際事務所), the operator of Japan Apostille Center.