New Jersey Vital Records: Document Readiness for Apostille and Legalization
When preparing a document for international use, the first step is confirming that you have the correct version of your New Jersey vital record.
Ordering the wrong document is a frequent cause of delay. In many cases, time is lost because the certificate obtained does not meet the requesting organization’s specific requirements.
Before beginning authentication, confirm that your document meets the standards below.
Document Standards for International Authentication
For apostille or multi-step legalization, New Jersey vital records must:
- Be issued by the New Jersey Department of Health - Office of Vital Statistics and Registry, or by a local vital records office authorized to issue state-certified copies.
- Be a certified copy.
- Be printed on official security paper (State Registrar paper).
- Contain the raised or embossed state seal.
Short-form abstracts, photocopies, hospital-issued records, and unofficial prints are not acceptable for authentication processing.
Ordering the Correct Record (Online or Through an Authorized Office)
New Jersey also partners with VitalChek as its authorized online ordering platform.
Order here:
https://www.vitalchek.com/v/vital-records/new-jersey
This is particularly helpful for individuals who no longer reside in New Jersey.
Certified copies may also be obtained directly from local vital records offices in towns with hospitals.
Whether ordering online or through an authorized office, ensure the document is issued as an official certified copy suitable for apostille or legalization, often referred to as a Long Form copy.
Sequencing and Destination Requirements
If the destination country is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, an apostille issued by the appropriate authority completes the authentication process.
If the destination country is not a Hague member, additional steps may be required. These can include state certification, U.S. Department of State authentication, and legalization through the appropriate embassy or consulate.
Confirming the correct sequence at the outset helps prevent re-routing and repeat submissions.
After the Record Is Issued
Once your certified record is received, Garden State Apostille Services conducts a readiness review to confirm the document is suitable for the required authentication process.
If the document meets authentication standards, it is submitted to the appropriate authority and you are notified once authentication is complete.
Proper document selection at the beginning reduces the risk of delay at the end and helps ensure the document is accepted without avoidable complications.
State authentication fees are separate from professional service fees. Professional facilitation includes document review, destination-specific guidance, and coordination designed to reduce the risk of missed deadlines or repeat filings.