Apostille" is an inevitable and important procedure for Japanese who plan to study, work, or be posted to Korea.
This article explains the meaning of apostille, the procedure, precautions, and frequently asked questions in an easy-to-understand manner.
Table of Contents
- 1. what is an apostille?
- 2. what kind of documents are required?
- 3. the process of obtaining an apostille
- 4. difference between official and private documents
- 5. frequently asked questions
- 6. finally: translation and application support
- 7. inquiries and access
1. what is an apostille?
Apostille is a system whereby the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs certifies the authenticity of Japanese official documents submitted to foreign countries.
Since both Japan and Korea are signatories to the "Hague Convention (1961)," the applicant is basically required to obtain an apostille if the document is submitted to Korea.
2. what kind of documents are required?
Apostille is required for documents submitted to Korea in the following cases
- Full-time study at a university or graduate school in Korea
- Employment and assignment in Korean companies
- When obtaining a long-term stay or visa in Korea (spouse, employment, training, etc.)
Examples of specific documents:
- Graduation certificate and transcript
- Certificate of family relationship (e.g., copy of family register)
- Curriculum Vitae, Translated Text, etc.
3. the process of obtaining an apostille
📌 Procedural flow by document type
| Document Type | feature | Procedure for obtaining an apostille |
|---|---|---|
| Official documents (e.g., graduation certificate, family register) | Official documents issued by public authorities | Apply for apostille directly at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs |
| Personal documents (e.g., translations, self-written biographies) | Translation of documents prepared by the person or by a third party | (1) Notarization at a notary public → (2) Apostille at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs |
| one-stop service | Batch processing available at some notary offices | Notarization + Apostille at the same time |
📍 Steps to Apply for Apostille
| step | Contents | point |
|---|---|---|
| (1) Preparation of documents | Graduation certificate, transcript, family register, etc. | If an English translation is required, prepare it along with the translation |
| Notarization at a notary public's office | Proof of authenticity for private documents | Translations are also available. Powers of attorney are also notarized. |
| (iii) Apostille obtained at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs | Application can be made at the counter or by mail in Tokyo or Osaka | Early because it takes about a week during busy times. |
| 4) Submitted to Korea | Send documents with apostille to the destination | Additional documents may vary depending on the university/company |
4. difference between official and private documents
- Official Documents:Issued by government offices, schools, or other institutions. Can be applied directly at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- Private Document:Documents prepared by the applicant, translations, etc. First, the document must be "notarized" before obtaining an apostille.
If you are unsure which one applies to you, it is safe to check with a specialist or the submitting organization in advance.
5. frequently asked questions
- Q: What is one-stop service?
Notarization and apostille can be done together at some notary public offices (Tokyo, Osaka, etc.). - Q: What should I do with the translated text?
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs does not examine the content of the translation itself, but an official translation may be required depending on the destination of submission. - Q: Can I do this by mail?
Yes, apostille applications to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs can also be submitted by mail.
6. finally: translation and application support
Obtaining an apostille requires specialized handling at each step of the translation, notarization, and application process.
We offer professional support in preparing the translations necessary to obtain an apostille, as well as in preparing the documents in a format suitable for notarization and application.
We promise to provide accurate and courteous support that is acceptable to Korean universities and government agencies, please contact us.
In addition, we are always ready to answer even the smallest questions or concerns about visa and administrative procedures related to Japan and Korea in general.
We are happy to discuss any questions you may have. Please do not hesitate to contact us even if you are not sure if this is the kind of consultation you are looking for.
7. inquiries and access
Horiuchi Gyoseishoshi Lawyer Office (Shinjuku, Tokyo)
Attn: Gyoseishoshi Scrivener Yukiko Horiuchi
Affiliation: Tokyo Gyoseishoshi Lawyers Association, Shinjuku Branch
Tokyo Immigration and Residency Management Bureau, Application Agency Gyoseishoshi Scrivener
Member of Foreign Employment Support Organization (FESO)
Member of AIL (Alien Visa Experts Network)
Access:
5-minute walk from Higashi Shinjuku Station on the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line
8-minute walk from Shin-Okubo Station on the JR Yamanote Line
12-minute walk from Okubo Station on the JR Chuo and Sobu Lines