Q: Getting married in France, they require apostilled proof of US residency, what documents are acceptable?

A: To obtain an apostilled proof of residency for your wedding in France, you can typically request a document from the local government office that verifies your residency. This document may vary depending on the specific requirements of the French authorities, but common examples include a utility bill, a lease agreement, or a letter from your landlord confirming your residency. Contact your local city or county clerk's office in Chicago to inquire about the specific document they can provide that meets the requirements for an apostille. They should be able to guide you through the process and provide you with the necessary paperwork.

Once you have obtained the document, you will need to have it apostilled by the appropriate authority. In the United States, apostilles are typically issued by the Secretary of State's office in the state where the document was issued. You will need to submit the document to the Secretary of State's office along with any required fees and a request for an apostille. Once the apostille is affixed to the document, it will be officially recognized in France as a valid proof of residency.

Be sure to allow enough time to obtain the apostilled proof of residency before your wedding date, as the process may take several weeks depending on the processing times of the government office and the Secretary of State's office. Additionally, double-check with the French authorities or your wedding planner in France to confirm that the document meets their requirements and that they will accept it for your marriage ceremony. By following these steps and ensuring that you have all the necessary documentation in order, you can proceed with your wedding plans in France smoothly and without any delays.