International Process Service – Global Process Server

Three routes abroad

Which way your documents travel

The destination country decides which methods are allowed. We recommend the fastest route that will hold up in your court.

Hague Service Convention

A formal request to the destination country's Central Authority, which arranges service and returns an official certificate.

Used for: Countries that have joined the Convention
Typical time: Often 2 to 6 months; longer in some countries
Proof: Article 6 Certificate of Service

Private local agent

A licensed agent in the country delivers the documents in person, where local law and the country's treaty position allow it.

Used for: Countries that don't object to direct service
Typical time: Often a few weeks
Proof: Sworn affidavit of service

Letters rogatory

A request from your U.S. court to a foreign court, sent through diplomatic channels, for countries outside the Hague Convention.

Used for: Non-Hague countries, or when compulsion is needed
Typical time: Often 6 to 12 months or more
Proof: Return from the foreign court

Other routes we handle include the Inter-American Service Convention for several Latin American countries, court-ordered alternative service under Rule 4(f)(3), and service on foreign governments under the FSIA.

Getting it right

What can sink service abroad, and how we prevent it

Treaty objections

Many countries object to service by mail or private agent. We check each country's declarations before choosing a method.

Translations

Most Central Authorities reject untranslated papers. We arrange certified translations into the official language.

Correct request forms

We prepare the Hague request form, summaries and supporting documents so the request isn't returned.

Proof your court accepts

Every return is checked against FRCP 4(f) or your state's rules before it reaches you.

Choose a country

Process service by country

Each country page explains which route applies there and how long it usually takes.

Common questions

International process service FAQs

How long does international service take?

It depends on the country and the route. Private service by a local agent can take a few weeks. Requests through a Hague Central Authority often take two to six months, and letters rogatory can take a year or more. Each country page gives a typical timeframe.

Do my documents need to be translated?

Usually, yes. Most Central Authorities require a translation into the official language, and even where it isn't required, serving untranslated papers can give the defendant grounds to challenge service later. We arrange certified translations.

Does the 90-day service deadline apply abroad?

Federal Rule 4(m) does not apply to service in a foreign country under Rule 4(f) or 4(h)(2). Courts still expect you to act diligently, so it pays to start the process early.

Can you serve a foreign government or state agency?

Yes. Service on a foreign state follows the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act (28 U.S.C. § 1608), which sets a strict order of methods. We prepare and route these requests.

Need papers served abroad?

Tell us the country and upload your documents. We'll recommend the right route and confirm cost and timing.

Start a service request

International process service in 195 countries