Country Guide · 🇫🇷

Apostille for France

France accepts apostilles. U.S. vital records used in France for marriage, PACS, or citizenship require a certified copy, an apostille from the issuing state, and a sworn translation by a traducteur assermenté in France.

Hague Member?
Yes — apostille accepted
Requires Apostille?
Yes
Embassy Legalization?
Not required

Typical documents used in France

  • Birth certificate
  • Marriage certificate
  • Divorce decree
  • Power of attorney

Requirements at a glance

  • Long-form certified copy of vital records
  • State apostille
  • Sworn French translation completed after apostille
Estimated processing

1–3 weeks

Working language for translation: French

Notes from experience

French mairies often require records to be recent — usually within six months of the ceremony date. Order fresh certified copies before starting the apostille.

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