Moroccan Document Apostille in the U.S. — 2026 Guide

Morocco joined the Hague Apostille Convention in 2016, which simplified a chain that used to end at a consular counter. A U.S. public document used in Morocco now needs an apostille from the Secretary of State of the issuing state, plus a translation.

Quick facts

A good deal of older guidance still describes consular legalisation as the only route. Where the receiving office in Morocco accepts an apostille, it is faster and cheaper.

Fees breakdown

Translations are usually expected from a translator sworn in Morocco, so ask before commissioning one here.

How to prepare a document for Morocco

1. Ask the Moroccan authority whether it accepts an apostille or wants consular legalisation.
2. Order a certified copy from the issuing office.
3. Notarise private documents before the apostille.
4. File with the Secretary of State of the issuing state.
5. Arrange the translation as the receiving office requires.
6. Keep the original, the apostille and the translation together.

Required documents

• Original certified copy with signature and seal.
• Completed authentication request and payment.
• Photo identification for consular services.
• Prepaid return envelope for mail filings.

What the consulates do

They handle consular registration, passports and identity cards, civil status certificates and transcriptions, marriage files, powers of attorney, signature legalisation and assistance to nationals.

Additional notes

Ask first, always

Because both routes exist in practice, the receiving office is the only reliable source on which one it wants.

Diplomas and judgments

Degrees and divorce judgments are the documents most often needed, and each has its own additional verification in Morocco.

Order two copies

Moroccan offices keep what they receive, and repeating the chain from abroad is slow.

Never apostille a photocopy

The certificate attaches to an original or a certified copy from the record keeper.