Apostille on a marriage certificate: what is it and what is it for
Apostille is an internationally recognized method of legalization that confirms the authenticity and legal validity of a document outside the country of issue. It is affixed to originals or notarized copies and is valid in all countries that have acceded to the Hague Convention of October 5, 1961. For example, an apostilled marriage certificate will be accepted in all countries that have joined the Hague Convention, a list of which can be found in our article here.
Why do I need an apostille on my marriage certificate?
An apostille for a marriage certificate may be required in the following cases:
- Change of residence or citizenship;
- Processing of documents for work or study abroad;
- Adoption of a child;
- Marriage in another country;
- Confirmation of marital status for insurance or inheritance matters.
Where can I get an apostille for a marriage certificate?
Apostilization of the original copies of this certificate is handled by the civil registry offices. This procedure usually takes a few days, but involves a number of difficulties. For example, in the last two or three years, apostilization of marriage certificates issued back in the USSR has often been refused. The certificate will also not be accepted if it has been laminated. Also, documents can be submitted for apostilization only in the region where the document was issued.
The latter can be partially solved by an apostille on a notarized copy of the marriage certificate. This is handled by the Ministry of Justice of the Russian Federation. In this case, it is necessary to contact the notary office in advance, which, as a rule, requires an appointment during working hours.
For several countries, double apostilization is often required - first on the original, then on its copy.Besides, in both cases, you have to wait in a long line and pay a state fee.
Therefore, it is best to entrust this job to BetterLetter. We will do all the necessary procedures ourselves, and you will receive the finished documents. If necessary, we can also optionally translate your papers into a foreign language. Leave a request via WhatsApp/Telegram or email, our managers will contact you and take the order.
Benefits of working with BetterLetter
- Low prices;
- Discounts for apostille of several documents;
- We translate into any languages, notarize our translations;
- Proper preparation of all documents;
- Online ordering via messengers;
- Convenient payment: we accept cash, cards, SBP;
- Informing customers at all stages of work on the order.
Examples of our work
Example of apostilized marriage certificate