Certificates

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Do we need to end original certificates for the visa process. Can we send the certified copies also? What is the exact definition of certified copies.

[paojack 41]

are u talking about the AOS?... Certified copies are fine, you don't need to send the original. In some states, you may get the certified copy the same day you get married or a little after, meaning that you can apply for AOS asap and there's no need to wait for the 'original' marriage certificate.

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Just wanted to know that if somebody has an original certificate, can we send attested photocopies from any government officer.

[JimVaPhuong 4,863]

Just wanted to know that if somebody has an original certificate, can we send attested photocopies from any government officer.

Original certificates for WHAT? You've got to be much more specific.

In almost all circumstances it's sufficient to send a simple photocopy of any official government document. A document is a "certified copy" if it's been certified by the custodian of records as being an accurate copy of the original document they have on file. Who the custodian of records is depends on what the document is, and often on what state the document is being obtained from. Original divorce decrees are usually maintained by the court where the divorce was granted. Marriage certificates are often kept by the records department of the county clerk's office. Birth certificates are usually maintained by the state's department of records or department of vital statistics.

You don't usually need to send that actual certified copy you receive from the government office. You can usually just send a photocopy of that document. If you send the original certified copy then they'll keep it - it won't be returned to you.

Occasionally, they'll send an RFE for an original document if they have doubts based on a photocopy you submitted. In that case you can send the original document, along with an additional photocopy and a self-addressed stamped envelope, and a letter requesting that they return the original document to you when they've finished inspecting it. They'll keep the extra photocopy and send the original back to you in the envelope you provided.

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Thanks for the valuable response.