How to Apostille a Certificate of Naturalization (Without Risking Your Original Document)

If you're a U.S. citizen planning to live, study, marry, or conduct business abroad, you may be asked to provide an apostilled copy of your Certificate of Naturalization. This critical document proves that you are a U.S. citizen, but the process of authenticating it for international use can be confusing and—if done incorrectly—potentially risky.

In this article, we will walk you through how to obtain an apostille for your Certificate of Naturalization, explain why you should never send the original document to the U.S. Department of State, and share how DC Mobile Notary can help you handle the entire process safely and efficiently.

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What Is a Certificate of Naturalization?

A Certificate of Naturalization is issued to individuals who have become U.S. citizens through the naturalization process. It serves as legal proof of citizenship and is a vital document when dealing with foreign governments, schools, or employers.

However, this document cannot be apostilled directly in its original form. That's right—the U.S. Department of State does NOT apostille original Certificates of Naturalization.

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Why You Should NOT Send the Original Certificate of Naturalization for Apostille

One of the biggest misconceptions about apostilles is that you need to send the original document to get it authenticated.

⚠️ DO NOT send your original Certificate of Naturalization to the U.S. Department of State.

The Department of State will reject the document, and you risk losing an irreplaceable record of your citizenship. In fact, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) explicitly states this on their archived page:
🔗 How Do I Obtain an “Authenticated” Copy of a Certificate of Naturalization? (USCIS)

Instead, what you need is a Certified True Copy of the Certificate, issued by USCIS.

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What Is a Certified True Copy?

A Certified True Copy is an official photocopy of your Certificate of Naturalization that has been verified and authenticated by USCIS. This document is eligible for further authentication (apostille) by the U.S. Department of State.

In other words, the Certified True Copy becomes the document that gets apostilled, not the original certificate.

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Step-by-Step: How to Get an Apostille for a Certificate of Naturalization

Here’s a simple, step-by-step breakdown of the entire process:

Step 1: Schedule an Appointment with USCIS

Call the USCIS Contact Center at 800-375-5283 to request an in-person appointment at your local USCIS office.

You will need to bring the following:

• Your original Certificate of Naturalization
• A clear photocopy of the certificate
• A valid photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state-issued ID)

👉 Note: USCIS does not process these requests by mail or electronically.

Step 2: Attend the Appointment and Request a Certified True Copy

At your appointment, a USCIS officer will verify your identity and confirm your citizenship status. If everything is in order, they will certify your photocopy as a Certified True Copy.

You will receive the certified copy during the same visit.

Step 3: Submit the Certified True Copy to the U.S. Department of State for Apostille

Once you have the Certified True Copy, you can submit it to the Office of Authentications at the U.S. Department of State for an apostille.

Here’s where to send it:

U.S. Department of State – Office of Authentications
Website: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/records-and-authentications/authenticate-your-document/office-of-authentications.html
Phone: 202-485-8000

The processing time and fees vary, but in 2025, standard processing can take up to 4 weeks or more unless expedited services are used.

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Additional Tip: Apostille for Deceased Family Member’s Certificate

If you are a family member requesting authentication for a deceased U.S. citizen, you must also provide:

• Proof of relationship (birth certificate, marriage certificate, etc.)
• A death certificate

This applies if you need to handle estate, property, or legal matters overseas.

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How DC Mobile Notary Can Help

At DC Mobile Notary, we understand how sensitive and complex this process can be. That’s why we offer complete apostille services for Certified True Copies of Certificates of Naturalization.

Here’s how we make it easier for you:

✅ Expert Guidance – We walk you through the entire process, from booking your USCIS appointment to submitting documents to the Department of State.
✅ Secure Handling – We NEVER ask you to send your original certificate.
✅ Nationwide Service – While based in Washington, D.C., we assist clients across all 50 states.
✅ Fast Turnaround – We offer expedited processing when time is critical.
✅ Transparent Pricing – No hidden fees. We quote everything upfront.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Certified True Copy online?

No. USCIS requires you to appear in person with the original certificate and photocopy. They do not accept mail-in or electronic requests.

How long does the whole process take?

• USCIS appointment: 1–2 weeks (depending on availability)
• Apostille by State Department: 3–4 weeks (or faster with expedited services)

Is the Certified True Copy as valid as the original?

Yes—for apostille purposes. It is the only legal way to have a Certificate of Naturalization apostilled.

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Final Thoughts: Protect Your Original Certificate—Do It the Right Way

The Certificate of Naturalization is a one-of-a-kind document that proves your U.S. citizenship. Sending it through the mail for authentication puts you at serious risk of loss, damage, or rejection.

By following the correct process—starting with a Certified True Copy from USCIS—you ensure that your document is legally accepted abroad without jeopardizing the original.

If you're unsure how to start or just don’t want to deal with the paperwork, DC Mobile Notary is here to help.

📞 Need assistance? Call us today at (202) 247-0837
Or visit our website to get started: www.dcmobilenotary.com

Let us help you get it done right—the first time.

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