Apostille - what is it and why do some couples need it?

An apostille or authentication is an official government certificate that proves the signature, stamp or seal on a document is genuine.

Apostilles authenticate the seals and signatures of officials on public documents such as birth certificates, court orders, or any other document issued by a public authority so that they can be recognized in foreign countries that are members of the 1961 Hague Convention Treaty.

The “Use your NZ documents overseas” page on the BDM site lists countries that require an apostille of the marriage certificate. Couples can also call their embassy to ask if it is required. 

The apostille service costs $32. Translation of the marriage certificate can also be done for $95 but couples are welcome to look elsewhere for a cheaper translation service. 

The couple should call BDM directly on 0800 225 252 and then press 4 for Marriages, and press 4 again for enquiries.

It is much simpler if they call BDM before they get married, and ask them to do the apostille before they post the marriage certificate out. They will get the couple to pay for that over the phone.

However, couples who already hold their marriage certificate can also call BDM and arrange to have their marriage certificate sent back for the apostille process to happen.