A foreign registry will not marry you, or update your status, without proof that an earlier marriage has ended. For a U.S. divorce that proof is the final decree, sometimes called the judgment of dissolution, apostilled by the state where the divorce was granted.
This is where people go wrong. Many states also issue a divorce “certificate” or “verification” from their vital records office, a one-page summary that a divorce happened. Foreign registries almost always want the court’s decree itself, and a certificate sent in its place is a common reason a marriage abroad is delayed.
The decree must be a certified copy from the clerk of the court that granted it, with the clerk’s signature and seal. Some countries go further and want an exemplified copy, a more formal court certification, and it is worth asking before you order.
At a glance
Decree or certificate?
| Document | Issued by | Usually accepted abroad? |
|---|---|---|
| Certified copy of the final decree | Clerk of the court that granted it | Yes |
| Exemplified copy of the decree | Clerk and judge of that court | Yes, and required by some countries |
| Divorce certificate or verification | State vital records office | Rarely, ask first |
| Photocopy, or attorney’s copy | Anyone | No |
Things worth knowing
- The state that granted the divorce decides, not where you live now.
- Ask for the complete decree, including any pages showing it is final. A decree marked interlocutory, or one without a final judgment date, is often refused.
- Federal court is not involved. Divorces are state court matters, so this is always a state apostille.
- Some countries want it recent. A certified copy issued within the last few months avoids questions.
- Marrying abroad? You will likely need a single status affidavit too. See single status affidavit.
How it works
Step 1
Get the certified decree
From the clerk of the court that granted it, or have us order it.
Step 2
We check it first
Complete, final, and certified by the clerk.
Step 3
State apostille
Submitted to the state where the divorce was granted, state fee included.
Step 4
Back to you
Tracked and insured, translated if your destination needs it.
Divorce Decree Apostille: common questions
Can I apostille the divorce certificate from vital records?
It can often be apostilled, but most foreign registries will not accept it in place of the court decree. Check with them before relying on it.
What is an exemplified copy?
A more formal certification of a court record, signed by the clerk and a judge. Some countries ask for it specifically. If yours does, order that version from the clerk.
Which state apostilles my divorce decree?
The state whose court granted the divorce. See apostille by state.
Official sources
Requirements, fees and processing times are set by the authorities below and can change without notice. Verify anything time-critical directly with them.
CDC: Where to Write for Vital Records
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Related: Marriage certificate apostille · Single status affidavit · Certified copies · Apostille by state