How to Obtain an Apostille in the UK

In the UK, an apostille is an official certificate issued by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). It authenticates the signature, seal, or stamp on a UK public document so it can be legally recognized in other countries that are part of the Hague Convention of 1961. 

How to Get an Apostille in the UK

You can obtain an apostille directly through the official government service or via registered agents. 

• Official Government Service: Use the official GOV.UK Legalisation Office service.
  • Process: Apply online, pay the fee, and post your physical documents to the Legalisation Office.
  • Fees: Standard legalisation is £45 per document (plus courier fees).
• Next-Day Service Providers: For urgent needs, the UK government provides a list of registered next-day service providers like The Apostille Service and Apostille Solutions.
• e-Apostille: For certain digital documents (e.g., those signed by a solicitor/notary electronically), you can apply for an e-Apostille, which is sent to you as a PDF. 

Common Documents That Can Be Legalised

Documents must be original or certified copies issued by a UK public body or official.

• Birth, Marriage, or Death Certificates
• Educational Documents: Degrees, diplomas, and transcripts
• Business Documents: Company incorporation and VAT certificates
• Court Documents: Divorce decrees and court orders
• Police Certificates: ACRO criminal record checks 

Key Requirements

Language: While the apostille is issued in English, it contains standard numbered fields that are often translated into French and Spanish on the certificate itself for international recognition. 

Originals vs. Copies: Some documents, like original birth certificates, can be legalised directly. Others, like diplomas or passport copies, must first be certified by a UK solicitor or notary public before an apostille can be attached.