Birth Certificate Apostille Los Angeles
Apostille service for birth certificates. We help Los Angeles families get birth certificates apostilled correctly for dual citizenship, immigration, passport applications, and legal matters abroad.
Make your birth certificate valid in another country
When you apply for dual citizenship, immigration benefits, passport renewals, schooling, or family‑based matters in another country, authorities often require a birth certificate with an apostille.
We help families across Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley confirm whether their California or out‑of‑state birth certificate is acceptable and coordinate the apostille so the paperwork is accepted the first time. You do not have to guess which version of the certificate to use or how to submit it.
Before you schedule, we review a photo of the birth certificate, your destination country, and any consulate or lawyer instructions so you know exactly what is required.
This page covers birth certificates. For other vital records, see our pages for marriage certificates, death certificates, and divorce records. For all vital record types, visit our vital records apostille hub.
Experience with birth certificates for overseas use
- Handle apostilles for California birth certificates and many out‑of‑state certificates used abroad.
- Review your birth certificate image to confirm format, issuing office, and whether a new certified copy is needed.
- Guidance when additional documents (such as certified translations or parental consent forms) are requested by consulates.
- Clear explanations of timelines and fees, plus 5‑star feedback for communication and accurate document handling.
Recent clients have used our birth certificate apostille service for dual citizenship applications, children's passport renewals, school enrollment abroad, and inheritance claims in foreign countries.
How birth certificate apostille service works
1. We review your birth certificate and instructions.
You can text or email a photo of your birth certificate along with any consulate, embassy, or attorney instructions. We confirm whether the certificate is eligible for apostille and which office will process it.
2. We help you obtain the right certificate, if needed.
If your certificate is too old, unofficial, a hospital souvenir copy, or issued by the wrong office, we explain how to request a proper certified copy from the state or county vital records office before moving ahead. This helps avoid last‑minute rejections.
3. We obtain the apostille and return your documents.
Once the correct certificate is ready, we submit it for apostille and arrange secure delivery back to you or directly to your representative abroad, depending on your needs.
Processing times and fees depend on the state that issued the certificate, current workload, and whether you choose standard or expedited options where available. We outline these choices clearly before you commit.
Common reasons Los Angeles clients need a birth certificate apostille
Dual citizenship applications
Many countries require an apostilled U.S. birth certificate to process citizenship by descent or naturalization applications, proving your place of birth and parentage.
Immigration and visa applications
Family‑based immigration petitions, residency applications, and certain visa categories require apostilled birth certificates to verify identity and family relationships.
Passport renewals and applications abroad
Foreign consulates often require an apostilled birth certificate when issuing or renewing passports for citizens living in the United States, especially for children born here to foreign nationals.
School enrollment overseas
Families relocating abroad or sending children to international schools may need apostilled birth certificates to complete enrollment and verify the child's age and identity.
Inheritance and estate matters
Claiming inheritance or settling estate matters in another country often requires an apostilled birth certificate to prove family lineage and legal standing as an heir.
Questions about birth certificate apostilles
Can I use my hospital birth certificate or do I need a state-issued copy?
Hospital-issued birth certificates and souvenir copies cannot be apostilled. You need a certified copy issued by the state vital records office or the county registrar. We can help you determine if your current certificate qualifies or if you need to order a new one.
Do I need a long‑form or short‑form birth certificate?
Some countries accept short‑form (abstract) certificates, but many consulates and immigration offices require a long‑form certificate that shows parents' names and other details. We can review your current copy and advise which version is best for your situation.
Can you apostille a birth certificate from another U.S. state?
Yes. We can often help coordinate apostilles for birth certificates issued in other states, but they must be processed through that state's apostille authority. Timing and fees will vary by state.
What if my birth certificate is old or damaged?
If your original certificate is too old, faded, or damaged, we can explain how to request a new certified copy from the correct vital records office before moving forward with the apostille.
How long does the birth certificate apostille process take?
Processing times depend on the issuing state and current workload. California apostilles typically take several business days to a few weeks. For urgent cases, see our same-day apostille service.
Share a few details and get a clear plan
You can call, text, or send a photo of your birth certificate so we can confirm what is needed and outline a realistic apostille timeline before you book.
When you contact us, it helps to include:
- Whether your birth certificate was issued in California or another state.
- The country where the birth certificate will be used.
- Your deadline and whether you are in Los Angeles, the San Fernando Valley, Orange, or Ventura County.
We will confirm fees, ID requirements, mailing or courier options, and the expected apostille timeline before finalizing your appointment.
For other vital records, visit our vital records apostille hub, or return to mobile notary and apostille services in Los Angeles.