Texas Divorce Decree Apostille
For Remarriage & Visa Applications Abroad
Complete 2026 guide to obtaining an apostille for a Texas Divorce Decree. Whether you are planning to remarry abroad or apply for a visa, this guide ensures your court documents are accepted.
- Must be a Certified Copy from the District Clerk
- Do NOT contact the County Clerk (they don't hold divorce records)
- Mail delays: 3-4 months processing time in late 2025
⭐ At a Glance — 2026 Snapshot
| Item | Status (December 2025) |
|---|---|
| Issuing Authority | District Clerk (in the county of divorce) |
| Accepted Documents | Certified Copy signed by Clerk/Deputy |
| 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 |
| Top rejection reason | ❌ Sending a plain photocopy or asking County Clerk |
Document Requirements
To obtain an apostille, your divorce decree must meet strict requirements set by the Texas Secretary of State.
District Clerk vs. County Clerk
In Texas, divorce records are court records handled by the District Clerk. The County Clerk handles property and vital records (birth/death/marriage). Do not go to the County Clerk for divorce records.
MUST Have
- • Certified Copy: Must be issued by the District Clerk of the court where the divorce was granted.
- • Original Signature: Must have the pen-in-hand signature of the District Clerk or Deputy.
- • Raised/Stamped Seal: Must bear the official seal of the District Court.
CANNOT Use
- • Photocopies: Never accepted, even if notarized.
- • Judge's Signature Only: The Judge signs the decree, but the Clerk must certify the copy.
- • Attorney Copies: Copies provided by your lawyer are usually not certified.
Step-by-Step Process
Contact the District Clerk's office in the county where your divorce was finalized. Request a "Certified Copy of the Divorce Decree." You may be able to order this online or by mail from the specific county's website.
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. You must use the certified copy from the District Clerk.
-
Wrong Clerk
Going to the County Clerk instead of the District Clerk is a common error. Divorce is a District Court matter.
Official Resources & Clerk Directories
Use these official government links to order your certified divorce decree directly from the source.
Major District Clerk Offices
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I get a certified copy of my divorce decree?
You must contact the District Clerk in the county where the divorce was finalized. Do NOT contact the County Clerk or the State Vital Statistics office; they do not hold divorce records.
Does my divorce decree need to be notarized?
No. A Certified Copy issued by the District Clerk is already a public document and does not need notarization. The clerk's signature and seal are sufficient for the Secretary of State.
How long does the apostille process take?
Mail-in processing is currently 3-4 months. Walk-in service in Austin offers same-day or next-day turnaround.
"The most common mistake I see with divorce decrees is people sending the copy their lawyer gave them. That's usually just a plain copy. You need the one with the raised seal or colored stamp from the District Clerk."