A certificate of naturalization proves that you became a U.S. citizen. Because it is a federal document, federal law limits copying it, and a notary cannot certify a copy of it. If a foreign office or agency asks for it, check exactly what they will accept before you do anything.
Why a notary cannot certify a copy
Federal law (18 U.S.C. 1426) makes it a crime to print, photograph or otherwise reproduce a certificate of naturalization without lawful authority. A notary has no authority to make or certify a copy, so Pac Signing will not do it. The National Notary Association gives the same advice.
What you can do instead
- Use your U.S. passport. A valid U.S. passport is proof of citizenship and is accepted by many offices in place of the certificate.
- Ask for the agency’s own process. Some agencies inspect the original in person and return it.
- Ask USCIS. If you need an official copy or replacement, USCIS handles requests for its own records.
- Make a sworn statement. Some offices accept your notarized statement describing your naturalization (date, certificate number and court or USCIS office), without a copy of the certificate. Ask the receiving office whether this works for them.
Apostilles for federal documents
An apostille on a federal document comes from the U.S. Department of State, not from the Oregon Secretary of State. If a foreign office wants an apostilled citizenship document, ask which document and which version they accept before you apply.
Other citizenship and immigration help
We can notarize your sworn statements, translate supporting documents, and apostille Oregon documents such as birth and marriage certificates. See notarizing immigration documents and certified translation.
FAQ
Can a notary make a certified copy of my naturalization certificate?
No. Federal law restricts reproducing the certificate, and a notary has no authority to certify a copy.
What can I use instead?
A valid U.S. passport is accepted as proof of citizenship by many offices. Otherwise ask the receiving office or USCIS what they accept.
Who apostilles a federal document?
The U.S. Department of State.
This page is general information, not legal advice. Call (971) 394-4152 with questions.
Official sources: 18 U.S.C. 1426 and U.S. Department of State: Authenticate Your Document.