What's an Apostille and How to Get It

Every foreign document and their Apostille also have to be professionally translated into Italian if you are applying for Italian dual citizenship. Learn here what the Apostille is and how to get it.

What are the documents required to get Italian dual citizenship?

For starters, you have to get a list that states the documents that have to be translated into Italian.
As a general rule, every document like birth certificate, marriage certificate and death certificate for every member of your family sharing your Italian ancestor, including that of your childrenwho are under 18 years of age because they also will be acquiring an Italian dual citizenship with you, must have an Apostille and be translated into Italian.

What's an Apostille?

If you are seeking Italian dual citizenship, you will come across the term "Apostille" while gathering all the required documents. Initially, this French word appears confusing; what is an Apostille, what is its functions and why is it needed?
Here is a brief explanation to help clear up the confusion.

Who issues the Apostille?

An Apostille is a globally accepted form of authentication. Its principal and only function is to identify every seal or stamp attached to an official file, confirm the legitimacy of the signature on file and the capability in which the individual signing the file performed. Your American documents must have an attached Apostille issued by the appropriate Secretary of State so that they can be legal in Italy. You should note that the Apostille is not a stamp on the certificate; instead, it is legalization, i.e., a document attached by the Secretary of State to the birth, marriage, divorce and death certificate.

Can I get my documents apostilled in Italy?

No. An Apostille is a distinct sheet of paper where the particulars of the original documents are summed up and legitimated by the Secretary of State of the actual state where the original copy was given. For instance, a document given in Los Angeles has to be Apostilled by Los Angeles' Secretary of State.

Remember: If you want to apply for an Italian Dual Citizenship in Italy, all certificate records must carry an Apostille. 

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