How to Apostille your Birth Certificate
A comprehensive guide for Californians navigating international relocation, from Sacramento verification to global recognition.
Apostille - The Global Standard for Document Verification
When you decide to move abroad—whether for a digital nomad stint in Spain or a corporate transfer to Tokyo—the 1961 Hague Convention becomes your best friend. An Apostille is effectively a specialized certificate, issued by the Secretary of State, that attaches to your original birth certificate to prove its legitimacy to foreign governments.
verifiedNOTE
Only documents issued by the State of California can be apostilled by the California Secretary of State. Federal documents require U.S. Department of State authentication.
Secure a Certified Copy
You must have a certified copy issued by the County Recorder or the State Registrar. Photocopies or hospital-issued "souvenir" certificates will not be accepted.
Complete the Request
Fill out the Apostille Service Request form. Specify the country where the document will be used to ensure compliance with local treaty variations.
The Final Seal
Once verified, the Secretary of State will attach a large, embossed certificate to your document. Do not remove this staple, or the Apostille becomes void.
Processing Times
Required Fees
Return Shipping
Non-tracked eturn shipping is included. We also offer faster shipping from a courier or USPS.