Archival document search

✅ Updated on January 31, 2025

WRAI provides a global archival document search service, assisting clients in locating and retrieving records from various archives, including government agencies, workplaces, and educational institutions. We also handle targeted document requests for specific records.

As a result, clients receive official documentary confirmation of their intent, with all documents delivered in person. WRAI operates worldwide, ensuring no geographical limitations in finding necessary documents.

Our archivists know where to send a request, what database to use, they even have access to closed archives and will definitely find evidence, if any.

What is archival document search?

Archival document search is a service that assists clients in locating and retrieving documents from various archives worldwide, including government agencies, workplaces, educational institutions, and more, to meet their specific needs. We can also assist with targeted document requests (for a specific document). As a result, the client receives official documentary confirmation of their intent.

Process of conducting archival document search

First, we collect complete information from the client about their ancestor, including full name, country, city, and year of birth. In rare cases, we may require a power of attorney from the client if the request involves government institutions rather than archives.

Next, our archivists personally visit the relevant institutions to retrieve the documents.

Once the documents are obtained, we:

• Send scanned copies to the client for initial review.
• Personally verify the authenticity and accuracy of all records.
• Translate and notarize documents if required.
• Ship the original documents to the client at our expense.

We guarantee a thorough search, strict confidentiality, and professional handling of all documents. Additionally, we provide consultation on how to use the retrieved documents for repatriation, citizenship applications, or other legal purposes.

Who needs archival document search and why?

Finding historical or legal documents can be a challenging and time-consuming process, especially when records are stored in distant archives, government institutions, or even in different countries. Many individuals require these documents for various personal, legal, or genealogical reasons, but accessing them independently is often difficult due to bureaucratic barriers, lack of local knowledge, or travel restrictions.

Archival document search services are essential for those who need official records for citizenship applications, inheritance claims, legal name corrections, or family history research. Whether you are looking to confirm your ancestry, obtain legal proof of heritage, or secure important paperwork from another country, our specialists simplify the process by handling all the complexities on your behalf.

Who is this service for?

• Clients looking to save time – Our specialists handle the entire process on their behalf.
• Those needing assistance with data corrections in certificates – Our legal experts can review, advise, and help resolve such issues.
• Clients from other countries or states – If obtaining documents personally is not an option, we take care of the process for them.
• Clients with ancestors from CIS countries – If visiting government institutions is difficult due to visa or citizenship restrictions, we help retrieve the necessary documents efficiently.

Each person may have their reason for seeking information about ancestors. Someone just wants to understand that he is one with the Jewish people. Others want to secure a happy future for themselves and their children by obtaining Israeli citizenship through repatriation. For the latter, Israeli law puts forward the only requirement that opens the way to automatically obtaining the status of a citizen of the State of Israel – the presence of documentary evidence of Jewish origin.

Documents available in the USA

The United States maintains a vast and complex system of archives, government agencies, and institutions responsible for issuing and storing official documents. Depending on the state and type of record, accessing these documents can be challenging due to varying legal requirements, privacy restrictions, and bureaucratic procedures.

Whether you need historical records, legal documents, or certifications for immigration, citizenship, or personal verification, our team can assist in navigating the process efficiently. We specialize in retrieving documents from state and federal archives, ensuring authenticity, and facilitating any necessary legalization or verification processes.

Types of Documents available:

• Birth Certificates
• Marriage Certificates
• Death Certificates (Legislation varies by state; in some cases, a power of attorney or the client’s personal signature may be required.)
• Apostille Services (In some cases, the original document or a power of attorney is required.)
• Letter from a Rabbi

With expertise in handling document searches across all 50 states, we help individuals, legal professionals, and businesses obtain essential records without the hassle of dealing with complex administrative barriers. Our services ensure that you receive accurate, timely, and properly authenticated documents, no matter where they are stored in the U.S.

Documents available in Europe

Obtaining official documents from European archives can be a complex and time-consuming process due to different regulations, language barriers, and bureaucratic procedures. Many historical and legal records are stored in various institutions, including national archives, civil registries, and religious organizations. Each country has its own documentation system, and accessing records often requires specialized knowledge of local laws and procedures.

For individuals seeking European documents for citizenship applications, legal matters, property inheritance, or family history research, navigating these processes alone can be overwhelming. Some documents may be restricted, requiring official requests, notarized authorizations, or in-person visits. Additionally, older records may only be available in handwritten or outdated formats, making them difficult to locate and interpret.

Types of Documents available:

Our expert team simplifies the process by handling all necessary searches, legal formalities, and communication with relevant authorities. We ensure that documents are retrieved, verified for accuracy, and, if needed, translated and legalized for international use. Whether you require civil records, historical documents, or official certificates, we provide reliable and professional assistance to help you obtain the paperwork you need from any European country.

WRAI Assistance

WRAI can conduct searches globally—there are no countries where we cannot assist in finding documents.

But not all descendants of Jews have documents confirming the roots of their ancestors. And the archival department of WRAI has been successfully solving these issues for many years. We will explain in detail how 2-3 documents from the archive will help you become a happy owner of Israeli citizenship and how to thoroughly search for missing papers.