Updated: 14 October 2026.
Verify an apostille in the issuing country’s official register or with its competent authority. For Latvian documents, the correct service depends on the issue date and type of authentication.
What an apostille certifies
An apostille certifies the authenticity of the signature, the capacity of the person signing and, where appropriate, the seal or stamp. It does not certify the truth of the document’s contents or replace checking the receiving organisation’s requirements.
Latvian apostilles from 1 July 2019
Since that date, Latvian sworn notaries issue apostilles electronically. Verification is available in the Latvian Council of Sworn Notaries’ register.
Open the official Latvijasnotars.lv verification service
- Enter the apostille number or select the original *.asice file — the service supports both methods.
- If the document has a QR code, check the destination address. A QR code alone does not prove authenticity: use the official site and type its address manually if unsure.
- Compare the number, date, signatory details and other available results with your document. Check that the apostille relates to the specific document presented.
- Keep the verification result and original electronic file. Checking an electronic signature requires the signed file; a scan or photograph of paper cannot provide that check.
Apostilles issued before July 2019
For apostilles issued by the Consular Department up to and including 30 June 2019, use the Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ register. It asks for the number and date. Do not confuse apostilles with consular legalisation: the site describes different document categories.
Verifying a foreign apostille
Identify the issuing country and competent authority. Official contacts and register information are available in the HCCH Apostille Section. There is no single worldwide register; the HCCH Permanent Bureau does not verify individual apostilles.
If no entry is found or details differ
First check the number, date, selected register and issuing authority. No result does not itself prove forgery. Contact the issuing authority through its official website; for older Latvian apostilles, contact the Consular Department. Until discrepancies are resolved, do not rely on the document as verified.
What to confirm before submitting a document
Ask the recipient whether this document requires an apostille, a translation and a particular format. Exemptions may apply under law or an international agreement. A successful register check does not mean automatic acceptance for every procedure.
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Official sources: Latvijasnotars.lv: apostille verification; Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs: register; Hague Convention, Articles 3, 5 and 7.