As all of you know Birth Certificates from different places in India are quite different in format etc. Is there a specific format or specific information/ official stamps etc. that the US Counsulate looks for? Also, I was born in an Army Hospital, and although I have the official Birth Certificate from them, the paper is more than 25 years old and doesn\'t photocopy well. I am part of the new NVC process where documents need to be sent to them for verification before they forward the case to the relevant counsulate. Some people say, though it is still not confirmed, that the NVC would require us to file originals (I am not sure if I would want to do that and risk losing the originals). Any suggestions as to what I should do would be appreciated. Also, when they ask for certified copies, is it okay to get them notarized here in the US or do they have to be atteseted by someone in India. I know there are multiple questions in this but I would welcome any help.