How to Get a Maryland Apostille for a Birth Certificate: Step-by-Step Guide

Before your Maryland birth certificate can be used in another country, it must first be authenticated with an apostille. An apostille is an internationally recognized certification that confirms the document’s origin and legitimacy. Without this step, many foreign governments, schools, and legal institutions will not accept your U.S. birth certificate.

The process may seem technical, but it is straightforward once you know the requirements. By securing an apostille, you ensure that your Maryland birth certificate will be accepted abroad without question, whether you need it for dual citizenship, marriage, study, or other official matters.

In this guide, we break down the step-by-step process, provide helpful tips, and highlight common mistakes to avoid so you can save time and effort.

There are many reasons why individuals require a Maryland apostille. Below are the most common:

1. Marriage Abroad

Planning a destination wedding or marrying abroad? Most foreign authorities require an apostilled birth certificate to validate your identity and marital eligibility.

2. Dual Citizenship Applications

If you are applying for citizenship in another country, a Maryland birth certificate with an apostille is often mandatory as proof of origin.

3. Immigration and Visa Applications

Permanent residency, work visas, and temporary visas often require apostilled birth certificates to support your immigration application.

4. Education and School Admissions

Universities and academic institutions outside the U.S. may demand apostilled documents, including birth certificates, for student verification.

5. Business or Legal Matters Abroad

In some cases, a birth certificate apostille may be required for inheritance claims, property transactions, or other international legal processes.

Always confirm the exact requirement with the foreign embassy or consulate before beginning the process to avoid unnecessary rejections.

Step 1: Verify the Destination Country’s Apostille Requirements

Before you even begin the apostille process, it is essential to confirm the requirements of the country where you plan to use your Maryland birth certificate. Each country has its own rules when it comes to accepting apostilled documents. Some may only accept certificates that have been issued recently, while others may require additional documentation, such as translations into the local language. Contacting the embassy or consulate of the country in question is the safest way to avoid costly mistakes. By doing this early, you ensure that the document you apostille in Maryland will be recognized without complications once you present it abroad.

Step 2: Obtain a Certified Copy of Your Maryland Birth Certificate

The apostille cannot be applied to just any version of your birth certificate; you will need an official, certified copy. In Maryland, these certified copies are issued by the Division of Vital Records (DVR), which operates under the Maryland Department of Health. Depending on your location, you may also be able to request one through a county health department. A certified copy carries the official seal and authorized signature of the issuing office, which is what makes it eligible for an apostille.

You can request this document in several ways. If you prefer convenience, the online application system provided by the Maryland Vital Records office is a good option. Alternatively, you may submit your request by mail, including the completed application form, valid proof of identity, and the appropriate payment. Those who prefer face-to-face assistance can visit the DVR office in Baltimore and obtain a copy directly. If you don’t want any unwanted hassle, you can contact VitalChek to order your certified copies. They are fast, reliable, and secure. Whichever method you choose, ensure that the certificate is recent and in excellent condition, since foreign governments often reject older or damaged certificates.

Step 3: Submit Your Apostille Request to the Maryland 

1. By Mail: Send your certified birth certificate, completed apostille request form, and payment to the Apostille Division in Annapolis. While this method is convenient, it may take longer due to mailing and processing times.

2. In Person: You can deliver your documents directly to the Secretary of State’s Office in Annapolis. This option is often the fastest, especially if you need the apostille urgently.

3. Through Professional Apostille Services: If you prefer not to handle the process yourself, or if you are overseas, you can use a professional service to manage the submission on your behalf. Companies such as Globeia specialize in Maryland apostille requests, saving you time and reducing errors. This is particularly useful if you are on a tight deadline or unable to appear in person.

Step 4: Complete the Apostille Application Form

When you submit your request, it must be accompanied by the official Apostille/Authentication Request Form. This form can be downloaded from the Maryland Secretary of State’s website. Fill it out carefully, providing accurate details about yourself and the document you want apostilled. Mistakes or missing information on this form are among the most common causes of delays.

Along with the form, you will need to include a certified copy of your birth certificate and, if you are mailing your application, a self-addressed stamped envelope so the office can return the apostilled document to you. Double-check everything before submitting to make sure nothing is overlooked.

Step 5: Pay the Required Fees

The Maryland Secretary of State charges a fee for each document that requires an apostille. If you are applying by mail, you can pay with a check or money order made payable to the Secretary of State. For those applying in person, credit cards are also typically accepted. If you use a professional service provider, you will need to pay both the state fee and the service fee, but this option can save you considerable time and effort.

Step 6: Receive Your Apostilled Birth Certificate

After completing all the steps, you will simply need to wait for your request to be processed. If you mailed your application, you should expect a turnaround of approximately seven to ten business days, plus mailing time. In-person submissions are usually faster, with some requests being processed within one to two days. Those who opt for a third-party service often receive their apostilled document within just 24 to 48 hours, depending on the service package.

Once your request has been processed, the Maryland Secretary of State will attach an apostille certificate to your birth certificate. This final document is now legally authenticated for international use. You can use it for marriage, immigration, education, or any other purpose that requires proof of your identity abroad.

Mistakes or missing details in the apostille process can cause frustrating delays and even result in rejected documents. That’s why it’s essential to get it right the first time. With Globeia’s Maryland apostille services, your birth certificate is carefully reviewed, prepared, and submitted to the Secretary of State with precision. Their team ensures that every requirement is met, helping you avoid costly errors and long wait times. By trusting professionals to handle the process, you gain peace of mind knowing your document will be accepted abroad,  allowing you to focus on your next steps, not the paperwork.