How To Get An Apostille For Your Divorce Decree

Getting a divorce decree apostille might sound complicated, but it is simpler than you might think. If you need to present your divorce decree abroad, the document must be authenticated correctly. An apostille makes your divorce decree legally recognized outside the United States. In this article, we explain the steps you need to take, what to expect, and how to make the process as smooth as possible.

What Is an Apostille for a Divorce Decree?

An apostille is an official verification that authenticates the origin of a document for international use. A divorce decree, issued by a court, qualifies as one of these documents. When you get a divorce decree apostille, it tells foreign officials that the court document is genuine. 

Without it, your divorce decree might not be accepted abroad. Countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention will require this type of certification for any legal documents being used across borders.

Why You Might Need a Divorce Decree Apostille

There are many reasons you might need your divorce decree recognized internationally. Maybe you are getting remarried in a different country. You might need to update your citizenship status or complete immigration paperwork. 

Business matters, like inheritance or property transfers, can also require proof of divorce. Each of these situations calls for a properly authenticated divorce decree. This makes the apostille process a necessary step.

Steps to Prepare Your Divorce Decree for Apostille

First, check that you have a certified copy of your divorce decree. It must come from the court that finalized your divorce. Photocopies or uncertified copies will not be accepted. 

If you do not have a certified copy, you will need to contact the court clerk’s office in the county where your divorce was finalized. They can issue a new certified copy, which will have a raised seal or official signature.

Next, find out which authority in your state handles apostilles. Every state has a designated office, usually the Secretary of State. For example, if your divorce decree was issued in New York, the New York Department of State would handle the apostille request. It is important that you send the document to the correct state office to avoid delays.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Divorce Decree Apostille?

Processing times can vary depending on the state and the workload of the apostille office. Standard processing usually takes about 5 to 10 business days. 

Some offices offer expedited services for an additional fee, which can shorten the wait to as little as one day. It is a good idea to plan ahead if you know you will need your divorce decree apostilled for a future event or legal process abroad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One of the biggest mistakes is submitting an uncertified or incorrect copy of the divorce decree. Apostille offices will reject documents that do not meet their requirements. 

Another mistake is sending documents to the wrong state office. Remember that the state where the divorce was finalized is the only one that can authenticate your decree. Failing to include the right payment or forgetting to complete the required forms can also slow down the process.

What to Expect When Submitting Your Divorce Decree for Apostille

When you submit your divorce decree, you usually need to fill out an apostille request form. This form asks for basic information, like your name, contact details, and the country where the document will be used. 

Some states allow you to submit the request by mail. Meanwhile, others accept walk-in requests at their offices. Be prepared to pay the required fee, which varies by state. Most offices accept payment by check, money order, or credit card.

Once the office receives your divorce decree and payment, they will review everything to make sure it meets the requirements. If everything is correct, they will issue the apostille and attach it directly to your document. They will then return it to you by mail or allow you to pick it up in person, depending on the service you chose.

Special Considerations for Divorce Decree Apostilles

If your divorce decree is very old, the state office may require a newly certified copy before processing the apostille. Some countries have additional requirements, such as translations into their official language. 

In these cases, you might need a certified translation of your divorce decree. It is better to know in advance what the receiving country expects. This can save you time and prevent your documents from being rejected once you arrive.

Why Use a Professional Service for Your Divorce Decree Apostille

Working with a professional service can save you time, stress, and even money. Apostille requests involve strict rules, and one small mistake can delay the entire process. 

When you trust us at Apostille Corp, you avoid guesswork and frustrating delays. Our team knows the exact steps to take for every state and every situation.

Instead of trying to figure everything out on your own, you can relax knowing experienced professionals are handling your documents. You will also have support if unexpected issues come up, such as needing a reissued copy or dealing with a special requirement from a foreign country.

How Apostille Corp Can Help with Your Divorce Decree Apostille

Apostille Corp makes the process simple and stress-free. We know exactly what is needed to get your divorce decree authenticated for use overseas. Our team handles divorce decrees from all 50 states. For this reason, no matter where your divorce took place, we can assist you.

We help you get a certified copy if you do not already have one. We submit the documents to the correct authority, track the status, and get everything returned to you quickly. For countries that are not part of the Hague Apostille Convention, we also handle full document legalization through embassies and consulates.

If you need a translation, we take care of that too. Our certified translations are accepted worldwide, making the process even more convenient. At Apostille Corp, we focus on delivering fast, reliable service that gives you confidence when using your documents abroad.

Ready to Get Started?

If you need a divorce decree apostille, we are here to help. At Apostille Corp, we make the process easy and clear from start to finish. 

Contact us today to get started and make sure your important documents are ready for international use.