How to Request a Certified Copy of Your US Marriage Certificate for Spanish Immigration
A certified copy of your marriage certificate is often a required document for visas, citizenship, and many other immigration processes in Spain. If you got married in the United States, you'll need a certified copy of your marriage certificate. Here's a step-by-step guide to make the process smooth and stress-free!
STEP 1: WHERE DID THE MARRIAGE TAKE PLACE?
→ Identify the State
First things first: Marriage certificates in the US are issued by the state where your marriage took place. So, you'll need to contact the vital records office in that state (not the federal government).
TIP! Not sure where to start? A quick Google search for "[Your State] marriage certificate vital records" will point you in the right direction.
STEP 2: ORDER YOUR CERTIFIED MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE
→ Online Ordering
Many states use services like VitalChek for secure online orders. If your state offers marriage certificate via VitalCheck, we recommend you use this service since you can do it all online.
→ By Mail or In Person
Download the application from the state's vital records website, fill it out, and mail it in with a copy of your ID and payment.
IMPORTANT! It's important that whether you order your marriage certificate online via VitalChek or via mail, you request an 'official certified, long form copy.' Spanish authorities will not accept an abstract or shortened version.
STEP 3: GET AN APOSTILLE
→ What is an Apostille?
Spain requires an apostille on your US marriage certificate. An apostille is basically a certificate the government attaches to an official document to certify that it can be used internationally.
→ Where to Get It
The Secretary of State's office in the state where your marriage certificate was issued. You will need to send your certified marriage certificate, a completed apostille request form, payment, and a prepaid return envelope to the Secretary of State.
→ State-Specific Procedures
Some states allow in-person requests, others allow you to request the apostille online. Each state has slightly different procedures for how to apostille a marriage certificate. Your best bet is searching Google for something like "[State] apostille instructions".
STEP 4: TRANSLATE YOUR DOCUMENTS
→ Official Sworn Translation Required
Spanish authorities require an official sworn translation ("traducción jurada") of your marriage certificate and the apostille. It's critical that it is a 'sworn translation' by a translator certified by the Spanish government.
STEP 5: TIMING MATTERS
→ Recent Documents Required
Spanish immigration offices and consulates often require that your marriage certificate be issued within the last 3-6 months. So, it's important you plan ahead!
→ Need Help?
If you have questions or need help with the apostille process, please reach out to our team for assistance!