Certified Birth Certificates: Why You Might Need One for Travel

Planning an international trip often feels like checking off a long to-do list — passport, visa, tickets, hotel. But sometimes travelers get caught off guard by a less obvious requirement: a certified birth certificate.

A certified birth certificate is an official copy issued by a state or county, complete with a registrar’s seal, signature, and a raised, embossed, or multicolored stamp. It’s not the same as a hospital keepsake certificate. Only a certified document is accepted for official purposes like travel, visas, or immigration.

While a passport is the primary travel document, there are situations where you might also need a certified birth certificate, including:

• Applying for a first-time U.S. passport

• Proving citizenship for dual citizenship applications

• Supporting visa or residency applications abroad

• Traveling with minors, where parental relationships must be documented

• Replacing a lost or stolen passport while overseas

Requirements can vary depending on the destination and type of travel, but if you’re asked for one, only a state-issued certified copy will do. Photocopies or souvenir versions will not be accepted.

If your travel plans involve extra paperwork, securing a certified birth certificate early is smart. Processing times vary by state; having it ready can prevent last-minute delays.

Need help getting a certified birth certificate from any U.S. state?
Call Texas Tower Passport and Visa at 713-874-1420 — we’ll ensure you’re travel-ready!