Getting an apostille for a marriage certificate in New York City is a required step if you plan to use your marriage abroad. Whether you had a ceremony with a wedding officiant or completed your marriage at the City Clerk, your marriage certificate must be authenticated before it can be recognized internationally. In this guide, I will walk you through the exact steps to get an apostille in NYC, how long it takes, and how to avoid common mistakes.
What is an apostille for a marriage certificate
An apostille is an official authentication issued by the New York Department of State. It confirms that your marriage certificate is valid and can be used in another country that is part of the Hague Apostille Convention. Without an apostille, your marriage certificate may not be accepted internationally.
Step by step: how to get an apostille in NYC
Step 1: Get your long form marriage certificate
You need the extended (long form) marriage certificate issued by the NYC City Clerk.
📍 NYC City Clerk – Marriage Bureau
141 Worth Street
New York, NY 10013
The short certificate is not accepted for apostille.
Step 2: Authenticate the document at the County Clerk
Before getting the apostille, your document must be authenticated at the County Clerk’s office. 📍 New York County Clerk (Supreme Court Building)
60 Centre Street
New York, NY 10007
This step verifies the signature on your marriage certificate.
Step 3: Get the apostille from the New York Department of State
Once your document is authenticated, you can go to the Department of State to obtain the apostille. 📍 New York State Department of State
123 William Street, 2nd Floor
New York, NY 10038
This is the final step that makes your marriage certificate valid internationally.
How long does it take to get an apostille in New York City
The timeline depends on how you complete the process:
- Same day: possible if everything is done in person and early
- Next day: very common if timing is tight
- By mail: can take several weeks
Many couples choose to complete everything the day after their wedding.
Can you get an apostille the same day in NYC
Yes, it is possible to get an apostille the same day in New York City. However, timing is important. You must:
- Have the correct marriage certificate
- Complete the County Clerk authentication
- Arrive at the Department of State before closing
Missing one step or arriving too late can delay the process.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Getting the short version of the marriage certificate
- Skipping the County Clerk authentication
- Going too late in the day
- Not knowing where each office is located
- Not planning enough time between each step
Avoiding these mistakes can save you several days.
Can someone get the apostille for you
Yes, you can authorize someone to handle the apostille process on your behalf. This is especially helpful if you are traveling or leaving New York shortly after your wedding.
Apostille marriage certificate NYC cost
The cost to get an apostille for a marriage certificate in New York City is relatively affordable, but it involves several steps.
Here is a breakdown of the typical government fees per copy:
- Marriage certificate (extended form): $35 per copy
- County Clerk authentication fee: $3 per copy
- Apostille fee: $10 per copy
This brings the total to approximately $48 per copy for a marriage certificate with apostille.
Most couples choose to get at least two copies. It is always safer in case one document gets lost or delayed during the process or when sending paperwork internationally.
Frequently Asked Questions About Apostille in NYC
I’m Corinne JOX, a bilingual wedding officiant and apostille service provider based in New York City. I specialize in helping international couples get married in NYC and navigate all the administrative steps that follow, including obtaining their marriage certificate and apostille. I work closely with the City Clerk, County Clerk, and Department of State, and I often complete the entire apostille process the same day or the next day depending on timing. My goal is simple: make the process smooth, fast, and stress free so you can focus on celebrating your marriage.
Need help getting your apostille in NYC
If you prefer not to deal with the process yourself, I offer apostille services for couples getting married in New York City.
I can:
- Handle the entire process for you
- Complete it same day or next day when possible
- Deliver your documents to your hotel or meet you wherever convenient
You can learn more here:
👉Apostille Marriage Certificate New York Fast & Secure Service