Texas Death Certificate Apostille
For Inheritance, Probate & Repatriation of Remains
Complete 2026 guide to obtaining an apostille for a Texas Death Certificate. Whether you are handling inheritance matters, probate, or the repatriation of remains, this guide ensures your documents are accepted abroad.
- Must be a Certified Copy from DSHS or County Clerk
- Do NOT notarize photocopies (they will be rejected)
- Mail delays: 3-4 months processing time in late 2025
⭐ At a Glance — 2026 Snapshot
| Item | Status (December 2025) |
|---|---|
| Accepted Documents | Certified Copy from DSHS or County Clerk |
| State apostille fee | $15 per document |
| Where to apostille | Texas Secretary of State – Authentications Unit in Austin |
| Mail-in processing | Slow 3-4 months in late 2025 |
| In-person options | Walk-in and appointment-based submission in Austin |
| Top rejection reason | ❌ Submitting a photocopy or old document (>5 years) |
Document Requirements
To obtain an apostille, your death certificate must meet strict requirements set by the Texas Secretary of State.
The 5-Year Rule
Documents older than 5 years are frequently rejected because the official's signature may no longer be on file. We strongly recommend ordering a new certified copy before applying for an apostille.
MUST Have
- • Certified Copy: Must be issued by Texas DSHS or a Local Registrar (County Clerk).
- • Original Signature: Must have the pen-in-hand signature of the registrar (or a raised seal).
- • Recent Issue: Ideally issued within the last 5 years.
CANNOT Use
- • Photocopies: Never accepted, even if notarized.
- • Notarized Copies: Do not take a copy to a notary. The state must certify the document itself.
- • Informational Copies: "For Genealogy Purposes" copies are not valid for legal use.
Step-by-Step Process
If you don't have a recent copy, order one from Texas DSHS or the County Clerk where the death occurred. Request a "Long Form" if available, as it contains the most information.
Download and fill out Form 2102 (Request for Official Certificate or Apostille). Ensure you list the correct destination country.
Mail your document, the completed Form 2102, and the $15 fee to:
Authentications Unit
P.O. Box 13550
Austin, TX 78711-3550
💡 Pro Tip: Our wizard can generate a complete submission package with pre-filled forms, cover letter, and shipping label in minutes.
Generate My Package →Fees & Processing Times
| Service | Fee | Time |
|---|---|---|
| State Apostille Fee | $15.00 | 3-4 Months (Mail) |
| Walk-In Service | $15.00 | Same Day / Next Day |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Notarizing Photocopies
Never notarize a photocopy of a vital record. It is illegal in Texas and will be rejected.
-
Using Old Documents
If the registrar who signed your document is no longer in office, the SOS may not have their signature on file.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apostille a photocopy of a death certificate?
NO. You must use a Certified Copy issued by the Texas DSHS or the County Clerk. Photocopies, even if notarized, are frequently rejected.
How old can the death certificate be?
We recommend using a certificate issued within the last 5 years. Older certificates may be rejected if the official's signature is no longer on file with the Secretary of State.
How long does it take?
Mail-in processing is currently 3-4 months. Walk-in service in Austin offers same-day or next-day turnaround.
"For repatriation cases, speed is critical. I strongly advise against mailing your documents due to the 3-4 month delay. Use the walk-in service or a courier to get it done in 24-48 hours."