Many countries require death certificates to be authenticated before they can be used internationally. An apostille verifies the authenticity of the document so it can be legally accepted in countries that participate in the Hague Apostille Convention.

Our apostille service helps coordinate the authentication of death certificates issued in California and across the United States for clients throughout Oakland, Berkeley, San Francisco, and the greater Bay Area.

When You Need an Apostille

Common situations include:

• Inheritance and estate matters abroad

• International probate proceedings

• Insurance or financial claims

• Immigration or residency matters

• Legal matters involving a deceased family member

• Recognition of a death in another country

Which Death Certificates Qualify

To receive an apostille, the death certificate must typically be:

• A certified copy issued by the state or county

• Signed or certified by the appropriate registrar or authority

• Properly authenticated when required by the state

• Free from alterations or damage

Photocopies or unofficial copies usually cannot be apostilled.

How the Process Works

1. Submit your apostille request through our website.

2. Send your documents to our office or schedule a pickup.

3. We coordinate the apostille processing in person with the appropriate Secretary of State.

4. Your documents are securely returned once processing is complete.