How to Get Married in Another Country by Apostilling Your Birth Certificate and Certificate of Single Status
Getting married abroad can be a dream come true, but it also requires careful planning—especially when it comes to legal documentation. If you’re a U.S. citizen planning to tie the knot in another country, you will most likely need to apostille your birth certificate and a certificate of single status (also called an affidavit of single status).
At Orange County Apostille, we simplify this process for you. We handle the authentication of your essential documents, so you can focus on celebrating your love abroad. Book your appointment online here to get started.
Why You Need Apostilled Documents to Get Married Abroad
Most foreign countries require that your U.S. documents be authenticated before they can be accepted for legal purposes. If your destination country is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, this is done via an apostille.
Commonly required documents include:
- Birth Certificate (to verify your identity and place of birth)
- Certificate of Single Status or Affidavit of Single Status (to verify you are legally free to marry)
Each country has specific marriage requirements, so always check with the embassy or consulate of your destination.
Step-by-Step Guide: Getting Married in Another Country
Step 1: Obtain a Certified Copy of Your Birth Certificate
Request an official certified birth certificate from the CDC Vital Records or your state’s department of health. If you’re from California, request it from the California Department of Public Health.
Step 2: Prepare a Certificate of Single Status or Affidavit of Single Status
This document declares that you are not currently married.
- You can obtain a blank affidavit template from your County Clerk’s Office or consult with an attorney.
- The document must be notarized.
- In some states, you may also obtain a Letter of No Record from the state’s Vital Records Office if there’s no marriage registered under your name.
Step 3: Notarize Your Single Status Affidavit
Your affidavit must be signed in the presence of a certified notary public.
- Use a notary certified through the National Notary Association.
Step 4: Get an Apostille for Both Documents
- State-issued documents, like your birth certificate and notarized affidavit, are apostilled by the California Secretary of State.
- Federal documents are apostilled by the U.S. Department of State.
Important: Some countries require that these documents be issued within three to six months prior to the wedding.
Step 5: Translate the Documents (If Necessary)
If your documents are to be used in a country where English is not the official language, they may need to be translated by a certified translator.
- Use professionals certified by the American Translators Association.
Step 6: Submit to the Foreign Authority or Embassy
Once your documents are apostilled and translated (if required), submit them to the marriage registrar, civil office, or embassy in your destination country.
Countries That Commonly Require Apostilled Documents for Marriage
- Mexico
- Spain
- Italy
- France
- Germany
- Portugal
- Greece
- Colombia
- Philippines
- South Korea
Always check with the destination country’s embassy or consulate for up-to-date information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What’s the difference between an apostille and legalization?
A: An apostille is used when the destination country is part of the Hague Apostille Convention. If it’s not, you will need embassy or consular legalization.
Q: Can I use a digital birth certificate?
A: No. Only original, certified copies are accepted for apostille.
Q: What if I’ve been previously married?
A: You’ll also need a certified copy of your divorce decree or death certificate of your former spouse, along with apostille certification.
Q: Can Orange County Apostille help with translations?
A: Yes, we provide certified translation services alongside apostille authentication.
Q: How long does the apostille process take?
A: Standard processing is 5-10 business days, but expedited services are available.
Why Choose Orange County Apostille?
- We handle both notarization and apostille.
- We offer translation services.
- We have experience with marriage documentation for international use.
- Convenient online booking.
Avoid delays, confusion, or rejection of your documents abroad. Book your appointment now and get the support you need.
Helpful Government Resources (10 Backlinks)
- U.S. Department of State
- FBI Background Checks
- California Secretary of State – Apostille
- CDC Vital Records
- California Department of Public Health
- U.S. Courts
- U.S. Department of Education
- American Translators Association
- National Notary Association
- Embassy World
20 Embedded Resource Links for Easy Access
- U.S. Department of State Apostille Info
- FBI Identity Summary Check
- California Apostille Services
- Vital Records by State – CDC
- Marriage Certificate – CDPH
- U.S. Courts
- U.S. Department of Education
- National Notary Association
- American Translators Association
- Embassy World
- Italy Marriage Requirements
- Mexico Consular Info
- Portugal Government Services
- Spain Foreign Affairs
- Germany Federal Foreign Office
- Philippines Marriage Info
- Korean Embassy
- Colombia Foreign Ministry
- Marriage Abroad Advice – Travel.State.Gov
- Book Orange County Apostille
Conclusion
Getting married in another country is exciting—but making sure your birth certificate and single status affidavit are apostilled is crucial. With our professional, fast, and affordable services, Orange County Apostille helps you every step of the way.
Avoid stress, long waits, or rejected paperwork—book your appointment now and let us take care of the rest!
