Will the Department of State recognize an affidavit notarized outside of the country by a US citizen?

Yes — the U.S. Department of State can recognize an affidavit notarized outside the U.S. by a U.S. citizen, but it depends on how and where it was notarized.

Here’s how it works:

When Will the Department of State Recognize a Foreign Notarization?

1. If Done at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate (Best Option)

• This is the official U.S. notarization abroad.
• Treated as if it was done by a U.S. notary in the States.
• Fully recognized by all U.S. agencies — including courts and the State Department.

You’ll need to schedule an appointment with the U.S. consulate and bring valid ID and the document to be notarized.

100% recognized by the State Department, courts, and federal agencies

2. If Done by a Foreign Notary + Apostille (Hague Convention Country)

If you notarize through a local foreign notary and the country is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, you can get an apostille certificate attached. The apostille acts as international validation, and makes it legally recognized in the U.S.

• Recognized by the Department of State
• Example: A notary in Spain or Canada + apostille = valid in the U.S.

3. If Done by a Foreign Notary Without Apostille (Non-Hague Country) In this case, you may need:

• Legalization by the foreign ministry or notarial authority
• Authentication by the U.S. embassy/consulate

This is more complex and may not be automatically accepted unless authenticated.

What Will Not Be Accepted:

• A self-notarized affidavit by a U.S. citizen not using an official consular officer or without proper foreign notarization and apostille
• Notarization by a U.S. notary who is not physically located in the U.S. at the time (unless through special online notary platforms authorized for international use — rare)