Documents and apostille

US documents for German authorities: apostille by state or federal level, translations.

The United States is a party to the Hague Apostille Convention of 1961 (accession 24 Dec 1980, in force 15 Oct 1981). The HCCH status table shows no German objection against the US accession (HCCH status table). Re-check the table before you order apostilles; objections can be added.

Who issues the apostille

• State-level documents (birth, marriage and divorce certificates from a state or county, notarised documents, state court records, university documents notarised in the state): the Secretary of State of the state where the document was issued or notarised.
• Federal documents (for example the FBI Identity History Summary, often called FBI background check, and federal court documents): the U.S. Department of State, Office of Authentications. Instructions: travel.state.gov.
• The apostille is attached to the original or to a certified copy. For a diploma, many authorities want a certified copy apostilled; ask the receiving authority.

Translations

German authorities usually want a German translation by a sworn (beeidigte) translator in Germany. Which documents must be translated and whether a US translator is accepted depends on the authority and was not verified.

Which documents

• Marriage and birth certificates for family matters (Family), diplomas for recognition (Skilled worker).
• Police clearance: whether Germany requires an FBI check for your permit depends on the purpose. The LEA checklist for your permit lists it if needed.
• German documents for use in the USA: Berlin's apostille body is not covered here.

Where to get help

German missions in the USA for visa-side questions; the LEA for the permit checklist: berlin.de/einwanderung.