Birth Certificate Apostille

An apostille authenticates a birth certificate for use in foreign countries that are a part of the 1961 Hague Convention. The apostille essentially serves to certify the authenticity of the signature on the document. If you need a birth certificate apostille, you must get it from the state that issued the birth certificate, using a certified or official copy of the original document.

How to get an apostille Birth Certificate

All 50 states can issue an apostille for a birth certificate, however, the process to get an apostille varies by state. So, you can check with your birth state’s registrar or local county clerk to learn more. Here is how you can apply in a few different states:

• California – the California Secretary of State accepts applications by mail at the Sacramento office
• Florida – the Florida Department of State has applications available on its website
• New York – an Apostille/Certificate of Authentication Request Form can be submitted to the New York Department of State
• Texas – indicate that you need an apostille when applying for a certified birth certificate copy from the Texas Vital Statistics office

In nearly all states, you first have to order a certified copy of your birth certificate before you can get an apostille.

If you need to use your birth certificate in a country that is not a part of the Hague Apostille Convention, you may need an alternate or further authentication through the U.S. Department of State.

Check out more apostille requirements at Travel.gov (US Department of State)

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