Which document proves the change
| Change | Document to apostille |
|---|---|
| Court-ordered name change | Certified copy of the order from the clerk of court |
| Change by marriage | Certified marriage certificate (the record shows the prior name) |
| Change by divorce (restoration of former name) | Certified divorce judgment with the name-restoration clause |
| Change recorded on the birth certificate | Certified copy of the amended birth certificate; some registries also want the original (pre-amendment) version |
| Gender-marker and name change | Court order plus amended records, depending on the destination’s recognition rules |
| Naturalization-related name change | The Certificate of Naturalization shows the new name — a federal document (federal section) |
Why foreign registries ask
Citizenship-by-descent files, foreign marriages and inheritance proceedings link records across generations. Italian, Spanish and Polish authorities in particular require every discrepancy to be explained by a public document or, failing that, a sworn affidavit of same identity (an affidavit apostilled by the state of notarization). Minor spelling variants in old records are often handled by affidavit; actual name changes need the order or certificate.
Where to apostille
The state of the court that entered the order, or the state whose registrar issued the amended certificate. Sealed name-change orders (common in some states for safety reasons) can usually still be certified to the person named.
Translation
Translate after the apostille; the translator should render the old and new names exactly as spelled on the record.
Common reasons for rejection
- Uncertified copy of the order
- Sealed order the clerk will not certify without a motion
- Amended certificate where the receiving authority wants the original record too
- Affidavit used where a court order exists
Frequently asked questions
I changed my name through marriage. What do I apostille?
The certified marriage certificate, which shows the maiden name and the marriage, and the birth certificate under the former name.
Does a Social Security card or driver's license prove a name change?
No — they are not public records of the change. Use the court order, marriage certificate or amended birth certificate.
Can I apostille the original and the amended birth certificate?
Yes; order both from vital records and apostille each separately.
