Navigating the process of obtaining important documents like birth certificates, marriage certificates, and apostilles can be overwhelming. If you’re a resident of New Mexico, this guide will walk you through the steps to acquire these vital records and authenticate them for international use.
Obtaining Certified Copies of Birth and Marriage Certificates in New Mexico
The New Mexico Department of Health’s Bureau of Vital Records and Health Statistics is responsible for issuing certified copies of birth and marriage certificates. Here’s how you can obtain these documents:
Birth Certificate In-Person or by Mail
- Visit or mail your request to the Bureau of Vital Records and Health Statistics at: 2554 Camino Entrada
Santa Fe, NM 87507 - For birth certificates, complete the Birth Record Search Application form and include a photocopy of your government-issued photo ID.
- The fee for a certified birth certificate is $10.00. If mailing your request, expect a processing time of 6-12 weeks.
Online
- Visit the New Mexico Vital Records website to begin your online request.
- Follow the prompts to complete your application and payment.
For more information, contact the Bureau of Vital Records and Health Statistics at:
- Phone: (877) 284-0963 or (877) 284-1066
Certified Copy of Your Marriage Certificate In-Person or by Mail
If you need a certified copy of your marriage certificate in New Mexico, follow these simple steps to make the process smooth and straightforward.
Step 1: Identify the Correct County Clerk Office
First, find out which County Clerk Office issued your marriage license. You will need to submit your request to this specific office.
Step 2: Decide When to Submit Your Request
You have two options for when you can submit your request:
- Immediately After the Ceremony: You can request a certified copy when you return the marriage certificate after the ceremony.
- At a Later Date: If you choose to request it later, you can do so either in person or by mail.
Step 3: Prepare for the Fee
Be prepared to pay a fee for obtaining a certified copy of your marriage certificate. The fee varies by county but typically ranges between $1.50 and $2.50.
Step 4: Provide Necessary Information
When submitting your request, make sure to include the following details:
- Names of the bride and groom
- Date of the marriage
Providing this information helps the County Clerk staff locate your marriage records quickly and accurately.
Step 5: Contact the County Clerk Office for More Information
If you need further assistance or information about finding a marriage certificate in New Mexico, don’t hesitate to reach out to the County Clerk Office directly. They can provide additional guidance and support throughout the process.
Securing a State Apostille in New Mexico
If you need to use your New Mexico-issued documents internationally, they may require an apostille. The Office of the Secretary of State is the sole entity authorized to issue apostilles for notarized and other public documents in New Mexico.
In-Person, Online, or by Mail
- Visit, request online, or mail your documents to the Office of the Secretary of State at: 325 Don Gaspar Ave
Santa Fe, NM 87501 - Ensure your documents are properly notarized or issued by a government agency, such as the County Clerk or New Mexico State Registrar of Vital Records.
- The statutory fee for an apostille is $3.00 per document. Make checks or money orders payable to “New Mexico Secretary of State” or “NMSOS”.
For more information, contact the Office of the Secretary of State at:
- Phone: (505) 827-3600
- Website: New Mexico Secretary of State – Apostille & Certification
- Apostille Request Form
Simplifying the Document Gathering Process
By following these steps, you can successfully obtain certified copies of birth certificates, marriage certificates, and state apostilles in New Mexico. Remember to check the official websites for the most current information, as requirements and fees may change over time.
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