Hey There! Need an Apostille in Washington? Here’s How It Works (And Why You Might Need One)
If you’re applying for naturalization, moving abroad, or getting married internationally—you’ve probably come across the word apostille. And maybe you’ve wondered:
👉 What is an apostille?
👉 Do I need an apostille?
You’re not alone. As the owner of Virtual Same Day Marriage, I help folks every week figure this out—especially when they need an apostille for naturalization or marriage-related documents.
In this post, I’ll explain what an apostille is, when you need one, and how to get an apostille in Washington—without the headaches.
What Is an Apostille?
Let’s start simple.
An apostille is an official certificate that authenticates a U.S. document so it can be legally recognized in another country. It’s required under something called The Hague Apostille Convention.
So… Do I need an apostille?
👉 If you’re applying for naturalization in another country (while keeping your U.S. citizenship), YES—you’ll likely need an apostille for naturalization documents.
👉 If you’re using a U.S. marriage certificate abroad, YES—you’ll need an apostille.
👉 If you’re submitting documents to a foreign consulate, YES—you’ll probably need an apostille.
What Documents Can You Apostille in Washington?
Here’s what we help our Washington clients apostille most often:
- Birth certificate
- Marriage certificate
- Death certificate
- FBI background check
- Single status affidavit (for marriage abroad)
- Naturalization certificate copies (apostille for naturalization)
- Adoption documents
- Power of attorney documents
If you worked with us for your virtual marriage, we’ll ensure your marriage certificate is eligible for apostille.
Why Washington Residents Often Need an Apostille
Here are some common reasons our clients need apostilles:
✅ Applying for naturalization in another country
✅ Moving abroad for work
✅ Getting married internationally
✅ Dual citizenship applications
✅ International adoptions
✅ Using U.S. court documents overseas
Whether you need an apostille for naturalization, an apostille for a marriage certificate, or another document, the process in Washington is very doable when you know the steps.
Step 1: Make Sure You Have the Right Document
You’ll need an original, certified document—not a copy—for it to be eligible for apostille.
Pro tip: If you’re using your marriage certificate or naturalization documents for apostille, we can help you verify if your current document will be accepted—or help you get the correct one.
Step 2: Fill Out Washington’s Apostille Request Form
You can download Washington’s Request for Apostille/Certification Form here:
👉 Washington Apostille Request Form
Important tip: If you’re using the document for naturalization abroad, be sure to note this clearly. Processing staff appreciate that detail.
Step 3: Submit Your Documents
Option 1: By Mail
Mail your certified document + completed form + payment to:
Office of the Secretary of State
Apostille & Certification Program
Corporations & Charities Division
801 Capitol Way South
Olympia, WA 98501-1226
Option 2: Use a Professional Apostille Courier
If you need your apostille for naturalization quickly—or if you just want to avoid the hassle—we strongly recommend using a courier.
Virtual Same Day Marriage partners with professional couriers who:
✅ Submit documents in person
✅ Double-check everything is correct
✅ Avoid delays or rejections
✅ Get apostilles back in as little as 1-3 days
How Much Does It Cost to Get an Apostille in Washington?
- State fee: $15 per document
- Courier fee: $75-$150 depending on urgency
How Long Does It Take?
- By mail: about 2-4 weeks
- With courier: 1-3 business days
If you need your apostille for naturalization in time for an interview, relocation, or citizenship deadline—a courier is well worth it.
Why Work With Virtual Same Day Marriage for Apostille Help?
We’ve helped hundreds of clients through this process, especially couples and individuals preparing for:
✅ Naturalization in another country
✅ International marriages
✅ Relocation abroad
When you work with us, you get:
✅ Personal guidance on what documents to apostille
✅ Help obtaining the right version of your document
✅ Trusted courier referrals
✅ A smooth, stress-free experience
Internal Links to Explore
👉 How to Apostille a Marriage Certificate for Immigration
👉 Virtual Marriage for K1 Visa Guide
👉 How to Get an Apostille in Pennsylvania
External Helpful Links
👉 Washington Secretary of State – Apostille Program
👉 U.S. Department of State – Apostille Convention Countries
FAQ — Getting an Apostille in Washington
1️⃣ What is an apostille?
An apostille is a certificate that validates a U.S. document for use in a foreign country that’s part of the Hague Apostille Convention.
2️⃣ Do I need an apostille?
If you are submitting documents to a foreign consulate, moving abroad, applying for naturalization elsewhere, or getting married internationally—YES, you likely need an apostille.
3️⃣ Can I get an apostille for naturalization documents?
Yes! Many clients need an apostille for naturalization paperwork, such as naturalization certificate copies or other supporting documents.
4️⃣ How long does it take to get an apostille in Washington?
By mail: 2-4 weeks.
With a courier: 1-3 business days.
5️⃣ Can Virtual Same Day Marriage help me with this?
Absolutely—we assist with apostille for naturalization, marriage certificates, and other documents every week. We’ll make sure the process is fast and painless for you.
Final Thoughts — Ready to Get Your Apostille?
If you’re wondering what is an apostille, do I need an apostille, or you’re preparing for naturalization, marriage abroad, or relocation—getting your apostille handled correctly is critical.
👉 Contact us at Virtual Same Day Marriage, and we’ll help you with your apostille for naturalization or any other documents—fast, friendly, and fully personalized service.
