Document Filter
What This Document Is
A Certificate of Naturalization is an official federal record issued to individuals who become United States citizens through the naturalization process. This certificate serves as primary evidence of U.S. citizenship and is recognized domestically and internationally when properly authenticated.
The certificate contains:
• Full legal name of the individual
• USCIS registration number
• Certificate number
• Date and place of naturalization
• Official seal and signature of the issuing authority
What It Is Used For Internationally
A Certificate of Naturalization is frequently required for legal and administrative matters outside the United States, including but not limited to:
• Dual citizenship or nationality registration
• Foreign passport issuance
• Marriage registration in a foreign country
• Recognition of civil status abroad
• International inheritance and estate proceedings
• Property ownership, transfer, or succession overseas
• Immigration sponsorship or residency confirmation
Foreign authorities typically require this document to be federally authenticated to confirm its legitimacy.
Where the Certificate Comes From
This document is issued exclusively by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), a federal agency under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Official reference:
https://www.uscis.gov/citizenship/naturalization-certificate
Why Federal Authentication Is Required
Because USCIS is a federal issuing authority, Certificates of Naturalization cannot be apostilled or authenticated at the state level.
Federal authentication is required to:
• Verify the document was issued by a legitimate U.S. federal agency
• Confirm the authenticity of the signature and seal
• Enable recognition by foreign governments under international law
Federal authentication is performed only by the U.S. Department of State, Office of Authentications.
Official reference:
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/replace-certify-docs/authenticate-your-document.html
Important Limitation: Originals Cannot Be Apostilled
Original Certificates of Naturalization are not accepted for apostille or authentication.
This restriction exists because:
• Originals are irreplaceable federal identity records
• Federal regulations prohibit permanent alteration or attachment
• Apostille certificates must be affixed to certified copies only
Submitting an original certificate will result in automatic rejection.
How to Obtain a Certified Copy for Federal Authentication
To prepare a Certificate of Naturalization for authentication, a certified true copy must be obtained through USCIS.
Acceptable Certification Methods
• USCIS-issued certified copy request
• USCIS Form N-565 (Replacement Certificate) when applicable
USCIS reference: https://www.uscis.gov/n-565
Photocopies created independently or notarized by a notary public are not valid for federal authentication.
How the Document Should Look When Properly Certified
A document that is ready for federal authentication will have all of the following characteristics:
• Clear USCIS certification statement
• Visible federal seal (embossed or inked)
• Authorized USCIS signature
• No lamination, staples, or binding
• No highlighting, handwriting, or annotations
• Clean margins with no trimming or cropping
• Uniform paper size and professional reproduction quality
If any of these elements are missing or altered, the document may be rejected.
Common Reasons for Rejection (and How to Avoid Them)
1. Original Certificate Submitted
Why it’s rejected: Originals are prohibited
How to avoid: Submit only a USCIS-certified copy
2. Notarized Photocopy
Why it’s rejected: Notaries cannot certify federal records
How to avoid: Obtain certification directly from USCIS
3. Laminated or Damaged Document
Why it’s rejected: Federal seals and signatures must remain unobstructed
How to avoid: Never laminate or repair documents
4. Missing USCIS Certification Language
Why it’s rejected: Authentication requires verification of issuing authority
How to avoid: Ensure the copy includes formal USCIS certification
5. Alterations or Markings
Why it’s rejected: Any modification invalidates federal acceptance
How to avoid: Submit clean, unaltered documents only
Additional Notes for International Use
• Some countries require apostilles (Hague Convention members)
• Other countries require authentication only (non-Hague countries)
• Embassy or consular legalization may be required after federal authentication
Country-specific requirements vary and are determined by the destination country.
Connect With Us
Federal Apostille and Notary Processing
400 8th St NW, Washington, DC 20004
The latest news, articles, and resources, sent straight to your inbox every month.