Document Guide

Document Types for Apostille

Learn about the different types of documents that can be apostilled and their specific requirements.

Birth Certificate
Official record of birth issued by a state vital records office or county clerk

Common Uses

  • Immigration and visa applications
  • International adoption
  • Dual citizenship applications
  • Marriage abroad
  • International school enrollment

Requirements

  • Certified Original

    Must be an original certified copy with a raised or multicolored seal

  • Original Signature

    Must have the original signature of the issuing official (not stamped)

  • Issued by State Authority

    Must be issued by state Department of Public Health or county vital records office

  • Good Condition

    Document must be in good condition without tears, stains, or alterations

Common Rejection Reasons

Photocopies or scanned copiesDocuments with stamped signaturesDamaged or altered documentsHospital-issued birth certificatesDocuments issued by other states (must use issuing state)
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The apostille process varies by state and document type. Get your exact roadmap — tailored to your situation — in under 2 minutes. No guesswork, no expensive middlemen.

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Marriage Certificate
Official record of marriage issued by a state or county clerk

Common Uses

  • Spouse visa applications
  • Name change documentation abroad
  • International property transactions
  • Inheritance matters
  • Dual citizenship through marriage

Requirements

  • Certified Copy

    Must be a certified copy with official seal

  • Original Signature

    Must have original signature of issuing clerk

  • Complete Information

    Must include all parties' names and marriage date

Common Rejection Reasons

PhotocopiesCeremonial certificatesDocuments without official sealDamaged documents

Don't waste time or money on the wrong approach

The apostille process varies by state and document type. Get your exact roadmap — tailored to your situation — in under 2 minutes. No guesswork, no expensive middlemen.

Get Personalized Instructions
Educational Diploma
Official educational credential from an accredited institution

Common Uses

  • International employment
  • Foreign university admission
  • Professional licensing abroad
  • Immigration based on education

Requirements

  • Original or Certified Copy

    Must be original diploma or certified copy from institution

  • School Seal

    Must have official school seal or stamp

  • Signatures

    Must have required signatures from school officials

Common Rejection Reasons

Photocopies without certificationTranscripts (require separate apostille)Documents from unaccredited institutionsDamaged or altered documents
Free Personalized Guide

Don't waste time or money on the wrong approach

The apostille process varies by state and document type. Get your exact roadmap — tailored to your situation — in under 2 minutes. No guesswork, no expensive middlemen.

Get Personalized Instructions

100% free • Takes less than 2 minutes • Save hundreds on service fees