What you need
- A certified copy with the official seal from the state or county where the marriage was registered.
- NOT the ceremonial keepsake certificate signed at the wedding — that's not a legal record.
- The state of registration (determines the issuing Secretary of State).
Ceremonial certificates are NOT accepted
The decorative certificate from your wedding ceremony has no legal weight. You need an officially issued certified copy with a raised seal.
When you need a marriage certificate apostille
- Applying for a spousal visa or residency abroad
- Changing your name on foreign documents
- Joining your spouse on a foreign work assignment
- Claiming inheritance or pension benefits overseas
- Registering your marriage in your spouse's home country
- Dual citizenship applications
How long does it take?
- Standard: 5–10 business days
- Express: 2–4 business days
- Rush: 24–72 hours (select states only)
Common questions
Both spouses' names — does that matter?
No. The apostille authenticates the document, not the people on it. Either spouse can request the apostille.
My certificate is old — is that a problem?
Many countries require a certificate issued within the last 3–6 months. If yours is older, order a fresh certified copy from the issuing state first.
What about a certified translation?
The destination country may require a translation. Order it after the apostille is issued so the apostille is translated too.
Ready to apostille your marriage certificate?
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