Why You Might Need Your Naturalization Certificate Apostilled

An apostille acts as an international "stamp of approval" for your documents, ensuring their legitimacy for use in foreign countries part of the Hague Apostille Convention. Without an apostille, you could face delays or outright rejection when trying to use your documents abroad.

For a Naturalization Certificate, the apostille validates your status as a U.S. citizen, making it necessary for immigration, marriage, or legal proceedings outside the U.S.

Key Points to Remember:

• Naturalization Certificates cannot be notarized or certified by any state office.

• Only certified copies issued by USCIS are eligible for apostille certificates.

• Naturalization Certificates must be apostilled by the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C.

Using Your Original Naturalization Certificate or Obtaining a Certified Copy

When preparing to apostille your Naturalization Certificate, you have two main options: use the original certificate or obtain a certified copy from USCIS. Below is what you need to consider:

1. Using Your Original Certificate

   • You can send your original Naturalization Certificate to the U.S. Department of State for apostille processing. This method is quick but comes with the risk of loss or damage. Ensure to use a secure courier service with tracking.

2. Obtaining a Certified Copy from USCIS

   • If you're wary about sending the original certificate, you can request a certified copy from USCIS. This allows you to safeguard your original document while meeting apostille requirements.

   Steps to Obtain a Certified Copy from USCIS:

   • Schedule an Appointment: Contact the USCIS Contact Center at (800) 375-5283 for an appointment.

   • Required Documents:

     • Your original Naturalization Certificate.

     • A photocopy of your certificate.

     • A government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license or passport).

   • At the Appointment: The USCIS officer will verify your identity and naturalized status, then create a certified true copy of your certificate. Be sure to request a "Certified True Copy."

   • Submitting the Certified Copy: This certified copy can be sent to the U.S. Department of State for apostille processing.

Important Notes:

• Naturalization Certificates cannot be notarized or certified as true copies at the state level.

• Only the U.S. Department of State can apostille Naturalization Certificates, regardless of whether you use the original or a USCIS-certified copy.

What Does a Certified Copy Look Like?

A certified copy of your Naturalization Certificate from USCIS is a two-page document with:

• Certificate of Authenticity: This document includes an official USCIS seal, the signature of a USCIS certifying officer, and a statement confirming the copy’s authenticity.

• A Copy of Your Naturalization Certificate: The certified copy is attached behind the Certificate of Authenticity.

This two-page certified copy is the only version eligible for apostille by the U.S. Department of State.

How to Get a Federal Apostille for Your Naturalization Certificate

As a federal document, your Naturalization Certificate must be apostilled by the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C.

1. Why a Federal Apostille is Required:

   • Since Naturalization Certificates are federal documents, only the U.S. Department of State can apostille them. This ensures recognition under the Hague Apostille Convention by participating countries.

2. Let Us Handle the Apostille Process for You:

   • You can send your Naturalization Certificate—either original or certified copy—to us for apostille processing. We’ll handle the entire procedure, including walking your document into the U.S. Department of State.

   Our Process:

   • First Contact: Reach out to discuss your document, get a quote, or ask questions.

   • Document Submission: Once details are confirmed, we’ll submit your document to the U.S. Department of State for authentication or apostille certification.

   • Document Pickup: After the certification process, we will pick up your document from the Department of State.

   • Scanning Services: If needed, we’ll provide scans of the certified document.

   • Shipping: Your document will be shipped to its destination via USPS, FedEx, or DHL, whether it’s being sent internationally, to your lawyer, or another location.