- Do I have to appear in person to request a service from the “Stato Civile” (Vital Records) Office?
No, it is not necessary. All documentation related to requests for the registration of vital records documents can be sent by mail to the Consular Chancellery.
For special cases and divorce registrations, please contact us first via email at stcivile.washington@esteri.it
- How much do the services provided by the “Stato Civile” (Vital Records) Office cost?
Registration requests for documents pertaining to one’s vital records are free.
For the fees of other services, please refer to this web page: Consular Services and Visas
- How should I fill out the form if I have two first names or two surnames (last names)?
In the United States, I only use the second name as my legal name.
For Italy, you must indicate all first names and surnames (last names) present on your birth certificate — no exceptions!
- Can I translate my documents myself for the procedures related to updating my vital records?
Yes, provided that the translation is complete, faithful, and correct in every part. Otherwise, the Office cannot certify its conformity with the original (the apostille should not be translated).
For divorce decrees, considering the technical nature of the language used, it is advisable to choose a professional translation service with adequate expertise in legal matters
(click here for a list of possible references)
- Should I translate the apostille?
No, the apostille should not be translated.
- Can you return my documents after a registration request?
No, original certificates cannot be returned.
- Can I register the birth of a child without having registered my marriage?
No, first, register the marriage and then the birth of a child.
However, the request for registration of documents related to both events can be made simultaneously.
- Is it possible to apply for a passport for a child who has not yet been registered?
No, applying for a child’s passport is only possible after the registration of that child’s birth.
- I have to legalize a U.S. document. How can I do so?
All vital records’ certificates issued by local authorities are issued by individual States.
An apostille is issued by the Secretary of State of the State where the document was issued.
Regarding the jurisdiction of this Consular Chancellery and others within the United States, see here.
- What is the timeframe for the registration of vital records’ documents?
Usually 30 days, but this term may vary depending on the workload of the Italian municipalities to which they are sent by the Consulates for subsequent registration.
If no communication is received after 90 days from the request, it is recommended that you write to this “Stato Civile” (Vital Records) Office, which will ask the relevant municipality. It is also always possible to directly contact the competent municipality in Italy for information.
For matters within the jurisdiction of this Chancellery, all vital records’ documents submitted to it will be sent for registration to the competent municipality within 30 days of their receipt.
- Can I contact the municipality directly to inquire about the registration status?
Yes, as an Italian citizen, you can always contact the relevant Italian municipality directly for information.
Contact details can be found on the websites of the relevant municipalities.
February 2, 2026.