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How to Apostille or Authenticate a US Divorce Decree

Apostille

Alright, so you’ve got your U.S. divorce certificate, and now you need to use it in another country. Maybe you’ve found love again and are planning to remarry, apply for dual citizenship, or perhaps you’re sorting out some legal matters like in a recognition of foreign divorce, or simply being required a proof of your marital status in another country. Whatever the reason, an apostille makes sure your U.S. divorce certificate is properly recognized worldwide.

Step-by-Step Process to Getting an Apostille for a

U.S. Divorce Decree or Divorce Certificate

recognition of foreign divorce requirements

Step 1: Obtain a Certified Copy of Your Divorce Certificate or Divorce Decree

First things first, you need a certified copy of your divorce certificate. Here’s how to get one:

1. Identify the State of Issuance: U.S. Divorce decrees are issued by state courts, so the first step is to determine in which state your divorce was finalized.

2. Contact the Clerk's Office: Reach out to the Clerk of Court in the county where your divorce was granted. You can usually find contact information on the court's official website.

3. Request a Certified Copy: Request a certified copy of your divorce decree or divorce certificate. There are fees involved, which varies from state to state. So, ensure to inquire the fees and about the payment methods accepted e.g., check, money order, or online payment.

4. Verify the Document: Upon receipt, verify that the certified copy of your divorce certificate bears the official seal or stamp of the court (usually raised, embossed, impressed or multicolored), the name and signature of the appropriate official, and the date the certificate was filed.

Step 2: Make Sure You Actually Need an Apostille

Before you jump through hoops, make sure the country where you intend to use the divorce certificate actually requires an apostille. You can check the list of member countries of the Hague Apostille Convention online to ensure that an apostille is necessary for your purposes.

Step 3: Contact the Competent Authority

Before you jump through hoops, make sure the country where you intend to use the divorce certificate actually requires an apostille. You can check the list of member countries of the Hague Apostille Convention online to ensure that an apostille is necessary for your purposes.

Step 4: Prepare Your Documentation

Get everything ready to go before you send anything off:

1. Certified Copy of Divorce Decree or Divorce Certificate: Make sure it’s all good with the proper seal and signature.

2. Cover Letter: Many states require you to include a cover letter explaining why you need the apostille. Submit one and double-check all necessary information.

3. Payment: Be prepared to pay a fee for the apostille service. The fee varies by state, so confirm the amount and acceptable payment methods.

4. Return Envelope: Include a self-addressed stamped envelope so they can send your documents back to you.

Step 5: Submit Your Request

You can typically submit your apostille request either by mail or in person. If you choose to submit by mail, ensure you use a reliable postal service to track the delivery.

1. By Mail: Mail your certified divorce certificate, completed cover letter, payment, and return envelope to the address provided by the Secretary of State’s office.

2. In Person: If you prefer in-person submission, visit the Secretary of State’s office during business hours. Bring all required documents and payment.

Step 6: Sit Tight

Turnaround times can vary. It might take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. Some states offer an expedited service if you’re in a rush, but there’s usually an additional fee for that.

Step 7: Receive Your Apostille

Once everything’s processed, you’ll get your divorce certificate back with a shiny apostille attached. Give it a once-over to make sure all the details are correct.

Answering Some Common Questions

What if My Certified Copy Doesn’t Have the Proper Seal or Certification?

If your certified copy lacks the appropriate seal or certification, contact the Clerk of Court again and explain the situation. Explain the requirement for an apostille and request a properly certified copy.

What if the Country I’m Using the Certificate in Doesn’t Need an Apostille?

If the country requiring your divorce decree or divorce certificate is not part of the Hague Apostille Convention, you’ll need to go through a different process called “consular

legalization”. This involves a few more steps, including notarization and getting certifications from various authorities before the embassy or consulate

of the destination country signs off on it.

Can I Speed Up the Apostille Process?

Some states offer faster processing for an additional fee. Check your state’s Secretary of State website for details. Plus, using a courier service for mailing can speed up the delivery process.

Does the Apostille Have an Expiration Date?

Generally, an apostille doesn’t expire, but sometimes the country you’re sending it to might want a recently issued document, e.g., issued within the last six (6) months. Double-check with the relevant authorities in the destination country about any time restrictions.

Can I Use a Private Service to Handle This?

Absolutely! There are private companies like Apostille Pinoy that can take care of the whole apostille process for you. These services can be convenient, especially if you are unfamiliar with the process, short on time or patience, or basically outside the U.S. They usually charge a fee for their services in addition to the state processing fee.

So, there you have it! By following these steps, you can get an apostille for your U.S. divorce decree or divorce certificate.

Apostille Pinoy Services:

Your Solution for Document Authentication

Apostille Pinoy is a trusted service provider specializing in apostille and authentication services for U.S. documents.

Contact us at hello@apostillepinoy.com or simply fill out our online form for document procurement to get started. Our team of experts can assist you in processing your U.S. divorce decree or divorce certificate so it can be used and recognized abroad.