The apostille, which is a French term for "certification", is issued by a designated government official of the country (or sub-national government unit) that issued the document to be authenticated. The sole function of the apostille is to certify the authenticity of the signature on the document in question; the capacity in which the person signing the document acted; and the identity of any stamp or seal affixed to the document. The apostille either must be attached as an annex to the official document or placed on the document itself by means of a stamp. The form of the apostille is prescribed in the Convention and is mandatory. (A copy of the form is reproduced on the reverse.)