Documents commonly apostilled for France
- Birth certificates
- Marriage certificates
- Diplomas and transcripts
- Corporate documents
- Powers of attorney
Destination country
Apostille for France
France has been a Hague Apostille Convention member since 1965. Whether you are relocating to France, getting married, enrolling in a French university, or conducting business, your apostilled U.S. documents will be accepted by French authorities without embassy legalization.
Does France accept U.S. apostilles?
France is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention (since 1965), so an apostille is the final certification step: no embassy or consular legalization is needed for the document itself.
Membership status checked 2026-06-30. The document type and the receiving authority determine the exact processing path; we confirm it during review.
Common reasons people need one
- Teaching (TAPIF program)
- Student visa
- Work visa
- Marriage (PACS or civil marriage)
- Retirement
Translation
French translation is required. Translations must be done by a traducteur assermenté (sworn translator) recognized by French courts.
Certified translation can be added to any order.
Things to check before you submit
- Certified French translation by a sworn translator (traducteur assermenté) is mandatory
- Some documents may require a recent issuance date (within 3–6 months)
- The French consulate may have specific requirements for visa applications
Requirements are set by the receiving authority in France and can change. Confirm current expectations with the office that will receive your document.
Common questions about apostilles for France
Does France accept U.S. apostilles?
Yes. France has been a member of the Hague Apostille Convention since 1965 and accepts apostilled U.S. documents for official use.
Do I need a French translation of my apostilled documents?
Yes. French authorities require a certified translation by a traducteur assermenté (sworn translator) listed with a French court of appeal.
What documents do I need to apostille to get married in France?
You will typically need an apostilled birth certificate (issued within the last 3–6 months), and potentially an apostilled single-status affidavit or divorce decree, all with sworn French translations, to present to the local mairie.
Can I use an apostilled U.S. degree for work or study in France?
Yes. French universities and employers accept apostilled U.S. diplomas and transcripts. For academic purposes, you may also need credential evaluation through the ENIC-NARIC France centre at France Education International.
How do I apostille a corporate document for France?
Corporate documents such as articles of incorporation or certificates of good standing must be apostilled by the Secretary of State in the state of incorporation, then translated into French by a sworn translator.
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