Connecticut state authorities update guidelines for apostille requests and vital records certificates

The official website of the State of Connecticut (USA) has recently updated its sections on how to obtain apostilles and certified copies of vital records.

How to apostille documents in Connecticut

In the United States, state authorities only apostille documents that were issued in territories under their jurisdiction by subordinate organizations. In Connecticut, the Secretary of State is responsible for legalization.

There are two ways to submit documents for apostilization in Connecticut. Faster method (in-person or courier delivery):

• fill out an electronic application form on the state's official website;
• pay the fee by check, money order, or bank card ($40 for general, $15 for child adoption documents);
• deliver the documents in person or via courier to the Office of the Secretary of the State.

Slower method (by post):

• send the required documents by post.

The applicant can pay for return shipping in any way he or she likes; if he or she does not, the state authorities will mail them to him or her by first class mail. The state secretary will apostille the documents if they are issued:

• Public notaries;
• Town clerks, assistant town clerks, and deputy town clerks;
• Local registrars of vital statistics and their deputies;
• Clerks and assistant clerks of the Superior Court and Probate Court;
• State agency commissioners;;
• Justice of the Peace.

A copy of a document may be apostilled if it is notarized and accompanied by a written statement of accuracy and authenticity.

How to obtain certified vital records in Connecticut

One of the most commonly apostilled document categories in Connecticut includes certified copies of vital records. These documents are issued either by the local (municipal) vital records office or by the Vital Records Office of the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH).

Before documents can be submitted for apostille, they must be properly certified by the appropriate issuing authority..

Notably, Certificates of Adoption and Certificates of Stillbirth are issued and certified exclusively by the Department of Public Health. The processing time for these documents can take up to 12 weeks.

There are several ways to request certified copies of vital records:

1. Online or by phone through VitalChek Network, Inc., the only official third-party vendor authorized by the State of Connecticut (additional service fees apply);

2. In person, by submitting a request directly to the relevant office.

3. By post.

How can we help?

We will be happy to help you with apostille and legalization of documents for use abroad. You can always contact Schmidt & Schmidt, we have accumulated vast experience in legalization of various documents and we provide all necessary services in this area, including making notarized copies, translation, preparation of necessary powers of attorney, legalization of documents in government agencies and consulates of foreign countries, as well as delivery of finished documents to most countries of the world. You can read more about the legalization and apostille procedure for USA and other countries on our website.