What is an "Apostille" or "Authentication"?

An "Apostille" or "Authentication" is a means of certifying the authenticity of the signature of the issuing authority, the capacity in which the signer was acting, and the identity of any stamp or seal attached to the document. This provides countries with a means of verifying documents issued by a local authority in another country.

Obtaining an Apostille Seal

Apostille Information from Erie County Clerk's Office

Step 1

Obtain the Death, or Long Form Birth or Marriage Certificate filed with the City of Buffalo's Clerk's Office

Buffalo Vital Statistics
65 Niagara Square
1308 City Hall
Buffalo, NY 14202
Phone: 716-851-5431
Fee: $10.00 Per Certificate

Step 2

Send the certificate to the Erie County Clerk's Office for an Authentication.

Erie County Clerk
92 Franklin St
Buffalo, NY 14202
Phone: 716-858-8797
Fee $3.00 Per Authentication 

Step 3

Send Certificate to New York State to obtain their Apostille seal. The applicant must have completed the Apostille/Certificate of Authentication Request form.

New York Department of State
1 Commerce Plaza
Attention: State Records
99 Washington Avenue, 6th floor
Albany, New York 12231
Phone: 518-473-1001
Fee $10.00