How to Legalize Marriage and Divorce Certificates in Vietnam?
Do you have a marriage or divorce certificate issued abroad and want to use it in Vietnam? Or vice versa, do you need to use documents issued in Vietnam in a foreign country? Consular legalization ensures these documents are officially recognized and helps avoid legal risks. Below is a practical, straightforward guide that still adheres to the current legal requirements.
1. Legalizing a Marriage Certificate – Which Steps Apply to You?
1.1. Case 1: Foreign Marriage Certificate to be Used in Vietnam
What to do?
Step 1: Consular Authentication (Apostille/Consular certification)
Bring your marriage certificate and translation (if required) to the embassy or consulate of the issuing country in Vietnam for consular authentication.
Step 2: Legalization by Vietnamese Authorities
Submit your documents including: application form, personal identification (ID card/passport), original and copy of the marriage certificate with consular authentication, and any relevant documents. Submit them at the Consular Department – Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Hanoi) or the Department of Foreign Affairs in Ho Chi Minh City.
Step 3 (if needed): Translate and Notarize at Local Justice Offices
After legalization, the certificate must be translated (if not in Vietnamese) and notarized for use in administrative procedures such as marriage re-registration, birth registration for children, residency application, etc.
Processing Time – Fees
Fast processing: 1 day for valid applications; up to 5 working days if verification is needed.
Fees: Approx. 30,000 VND per legalized document; 30,000 VND per consular certification; 5,000 VND per copy.
1.2. Case 2: Vietnamese Marriage Certificate to be Used Abroad
Step 1: Translate and notarize the marriage certificate into the foreign language or English.
Step 2: Apply for consular certification from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Hanoi) or the Department of Foreign Affairs in HCMC.
Step 3: Legalize the certificate at the consulate/embassy of the destination country in Vietnam.
2. Legalizing Divorce Certificates – How to Do It Properly?
Foreign Divorce Certificate to be Recognized in Vietnam
According to regulations, if you were divorced abroad and want the decision recognized in Vietnam:
You need a certified copy of the divorce judgment, authenticated by a notary public or county clerk, and verified by the State Department of the issuing country.
Then, follow the same legalization process:
Consular certification by the embassy/consulate of the issuing country in Vietnam.
Legalization by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or local Department of Foreign Affairs.
Translation and notarization for use at the Department of Justice to register the divorce.
3. When Is Legalization Not Required?
Some countries have signed mutual agreements with Vietnam to waive consular legalization (e.g., Japan, Laos). In such cases, marriage, single status, or divorce certificates may still be valid without the full legalization process – but always check the official list for confirmation.
4. FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What do I need to legalize my marriage/divorce certificate for re-registration in Vietnam?
Original document (marriage certificate or divorce judgment)
Translation (if not in Vietnamese)
Consular certification → Legalization → Notarized translation
Q2: How long does the process take?
Normally: 1 day; up to 5 days if verification is needed.
Q3: How much does it cost?
Consular certification or legalization: approx. 30,000 VND per document
Other service fees vary by location and country
Q4: What should I consider when choosing translation/notarization services?
Use reputable providers (Justice Department or licensed notary office)
Certification stamps must be clear, with original signatures – documents with erasures or forgeries are not accepted
Q5: Where can I get support?
Consular Department – Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Hanoi)
Department of Foreign Affairs – Ho Chi Minh City
Other provinces: Provincial Foreign Affairs Office (if authorized)
5. Conclusion
Although legalization only confirms the legal validity of a document (not its content), it's a crucial step to avoid rejection or delays in administrative procedures. Understanding the full process – translation → consular certification → legalization → notarization – can help you save time, money, and avoid unnecessary legal trouble.
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