If you’ve been asked to obtain an Apostille for your Birth or a Death Certificate, the process can seem quite daunting. At Apostille Documents, we understand the process and potential challenges, and can obtain the Apostille for you. We’re here every step of the way, and will work hard to ensure the process is smooth and error-free. However, it’s good to take a few steps to make sure your Birth Certificate or Death Certificate is ready for an Apostille:

1: Where was your Birth Certificate or Death Certificate issued? Check the location on your certificate, and make sure it was issued in California.

2: (For Birth Certificates): Check the date on the Birth Certificate and verify that the certificate (or certified copy) was certified within the last 5 years. If it was not, please email or call us at 415-239-6600 to learn about your options.

3: Obtain Certification: Your Birth or Death Certificate can only be authenticated if it is first certified by a County Clerk or Recorder in the county where the certificate was issued. We’ll be happy to obtain the certification for you for an additional fee – email us for details or call us at 415-239-6600.

4. Find Out if Your Destination Country is a Hague Convention Member. If the country requiring authentication is a member of the Hague Convention, you will need an Apostille. If it is not, your Birth Certificate or Death Certificate may require further Embassy legalization. Click here for a list of Hague Convention member countries; if the country is not on the list, give us a call.