Check with your consulate to make sure your country will recognize your marriage. Some countries will require an extended certificate instead of the short form one typically provided. (I know my UK couples often get this. For other countries, double-check!)
How to Get an Extended Marriage Certificate in NYC
Take your short-form certificate (given to you when you marry at a marriage bureau after your ceremony) to the nearest Marriage Bureau to get the extended certificate for $35. You can do this directly after your ceremony.
If you were married by an officiant, you will first need to have the signed license processed. Make an appointment when you get your license to return to get this if you need it before you leave town.
Below are the pre-pandemic instructions, double check with the clerk at the Marriage Bureau what the process is now.
Then take the document to the nearest County Clerk’s Office. (In Manhattan, it is located in the Supreme Court building across the street) to authenticate the City Clerk’s hand signature, for a fee of $3.
Next, take the document to the New York State Department of State for the authentication of the County Clerk’s signature and the attachment of an “Apostille,” for a fee of $10. Payment is only accepted by money order, available for purchase at drug stores, which are all over the city.
The Department of State is located at:
123 William Street 19th Floor
New York, NY 10038
TIP: Most couples opt to do this on another day of their trip since it will take some time! Plan accordingly! It can also be done through the mail, which may be the only option during the pandemic.
