Dealing with the loss of a loved one is emotionally overwhelming. When international matters come into play—such as claiming inheritance, transferring property, or arranging burial abroad—you may be asked to provide a Apostille Death Certificate.

This article walks you through everything you need to know about obtaining an apostille for a death certificate in the USA, why it’s required, and how Rais Apostille can simplify the entire process for you.

What Is an Apostille?

An apostille is a form of document authentication recognized by countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention of 1961. It verifies that a U.S. public document—like a death certificate—is genuine and valid for use in another member country.

The apostille is issued by the Secretary of State for state-issued documents or by the U.S. Department of State for federal documents.

Why Would You Need an Apostille on a Death Certificate?

If a U.S. citizen dies and their affairs need to be handled internationally, a death certificate apostille may be required for:

Claiming life insurance or inheritance from abroad
Transferring ownership of overseas property
International probate proceedings
Pension settlements
Burial or cremation abroad
Closing foreign bank accounts

Any country involved in these affairs may require a properly authenticated death certificate with an apostille.

What Kind of Death Certificate Can Be Apostilled?

Only certified copies issued by a state’s Department of Health or Vital Records Office can be apostilled. Photocopies or uncertified copies are not eligible.

Key requirements:

Must be a long-form (not abstract) version
Issued and signed by the appropriate state authority
Must include a raised seal or official watermark

✅ If you’re not sure if your copy is eligible, Rais Apostille can review it for free.

Steps to Get an Apostille for a Death Certificate

Here’s how the process typically works in the U.S.:

1. Obtain a Certified Copy of the Death Certificate

Order it from the vital records office in the state where the death occurred. If you don’t have it, we can guide you on how to request one.

2. Check the State of Issuance

The apostille must be issued by the same state that issued the certificate. For example, a California-issued certificate must go to the California Secretary of State.

3. Submit to the Secretary of State

Once the certified copy is ready, it is submitted to the Secretary of State’s office for apostille.

⚠️ Each state has its own rules and turnaround times. Rais Apostille knows the specific procedures in all 50 U.S. states.

4. Receive the Apostille

The apostille is either attached as a separate page or stamped directly on the document. It confirms that the death certificate is legally recognized abroad.

Processing Time

Processing times vary based on:

The state of issuance
Document readiness
Your choice of standard or expedited service

With Rais Apostille, standard processing typically takes 4–10 business days, and expedited options are available for urgent requests.

Which Countries Require an Apostille for a Death Certificate?

Any country that is a member of the Hague Convention will require an apostille for U.S.-issued death certificates. This includes:

France
Germany
Italy
India
Mexico
Spain
Japan
Brazil
…and over 120 other countries

If your destination country is not part of the Hague Convention (e.g., China, UAE, Egypt), you’ll need embassy or consular legalization instead of an apostille. Rais Apostille handles both processes.

Why Use a Professional Apostille Agent Like Rais Apostille?

Handling an apostille request can be time-consuming, especially when you’re already dealing with a loss. A professional service ensures:

Correct Documentation

We verify that the death certificate is eligible and properly formatted for apostille.

State-Specific Expertise

Each state has different rules. We work with all 50 U.S. states and understand each one’s apostille procedure.

Time-Saving Convenience

No need to stand in line or guess what forms are required. We manage the entire process for you.

Secure Shipping

We offer door-to-door pickup (where available), insured courier return, and international delivery if needed.

Additional Services from Rais Apostille

Translation of documents (if the receiving country does not use English)
Notary services (for related affidavits or letters)
Multi-document processing (e.g., apostille for both death certificate and power of attorney)
Embassy legalization for non-Hague countries

What Does It Cost to Apostille a Death Certificate?

Prices depend on:

State of issuance
Turnaround time (standard vs. expedited)
Quantity of documents
Delivery method (domestic or international)

How to Send Us Your Documents

You can either:

Ship your certified copy to our processing center
Request pickup (available in select cities)
Order a new copy through us if needed

Once received, we handle the rest and return the apostilled document to your desired address.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Submitting a photocopy or unofficial copy
Sending documents to the wrong state office
Using outdated or incomplete forms
Attempting apostille without notarization if required
Not checking if apostille or embassy legalization is needed

Rais Apostille helps you avoid these issues and ensures your documents are compliant with international standards.

Client Testimonial

“My father passed away in New York, but we needed his death certificate apostilled for legal matters in Germany. Rais Apostille handled everything with care and speed. They made a difficult time so much easier.”
— Samantha L., Illinois

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

❓ What is the difference between apostille and notarization?

A notarization confirms the identity of the person signing a document. An apostille authenticates the document itself for international use. Some documents may require both.

❓ Can you apostille a death certificate if I’m not in the U.S.?

Yes. We serve clients globally. You can send your certified death certificate by international courier, and we’ll return it with the apostille attached.

❓ Can Rais Apostille help if I don’t have the death certificate yet?

Yes. We can assist you in ordering a certified copy from the appropriate vital records office if you’re authorized.

❓ How do I know if I need apostille or embassy legalization?

If the receiving country is a Hague member, you need an apostille. If not, you’ll need embassy legalization. We’ll help determine the correct process.

❓ Can multiple copies be apostilled?

Yes. You can have multiple certified copies apostilled if needed for different institutions, banks, or legal bodies.

How to Get an Apostille for a Death Certificate in the USA: Step-by-Step Guide

What Is an Apostille?

Why Would You Need an Apostille on a Death Certificate?

What Kind of Death Certificate Can Be Apostilled?

Steps to Get an Apostille for a Death Certificate