Understanding Apostille and Legalisation Services
In today's globalised world, the need for legalising and certifying documents for use abroad has become increasingly common. At CCS Law, we offer apostille services and document certification to ensure your documents are legally recognised in the required foreign country.
What is Legalisation? Apostille (Legalisation) and Document Certification Services - UK
Legalisation is the process through which the signature and seal of a notary public are authenticated by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and/or the Embassy or Consulate of the country where the document will be used. This process is generally required by countries that are signatories to the Hague Convention.
Legalisation Process
Notarisation: The document must first be notarised by a UK notary public. This involves verifying the document and adding the notary's seal and signature.
Apostille: The notarised document is then sent to the FCDO for an apostille. An apostille is a certificate that verifies the authenticity of the notary's signature and seal.
Embassy/Consulate Authentication: For some countries, additional authentication from their Embassy or Consulate in the UK is required.
Types of Documents That Can Be Legalised
Various documents can be legalised, including but not limited to:
Public Documents: Issued by UK authorities such as birth, marriage, death, and adoption certificates from the General Register Office.
Court Documents: Sealed with a wet ink court seal.
Government Documents: Signed by an official, such as tax registration letters.
Medical Certificates: Signed by a registered doctor.
Certified Copies: Of documents like passports or driving licences.
Other Legal Documents: Such as powers of attorney, contracts, or qualification certificates certified by a UK notary or solicitor.
Why Do You Need Apostille Services?
You might need apostille services if an official in another country has requested a UK document to be legalised. This ensures that your document is legally recognised and accepted in the foreign country. Apostille (Legalisation) and Document Certification Services - UK
How to Get Your Document Legalised
Step 1: Notarisation
First, have your document notarised by a UK notary public. You can find a notary public in the UK via the Faculty Office website or a solicitor through the Law Society.
Step 2: Legalisation by the FCDO
Submit your notarised document to the FCDO for apostille. You can apply online through the Legalisation Office.
Step 3: Embassy/Consulate Authentication (if required)
Some countries may require further authentication from their Embassy or Consulate in the UK. This can add extra time and costs to the process.
E-Apostille: The Electronic Apostille Service
The electronic apostille (e-apostille) is a digital alternative to the traditional paper-based apostille. This service allows for quicker processing and can be especially convenient for digital documents.
What is an E-Apostille?
An e-apostille is an electronic certificate added to a document intended for use outside the UK. This digital certification is secure and uses a digital signature from a solicitor.
Documents Eligible for E-Apostille
Personal Documents: Includes digital versions of P60, P45, court documents, degree certificates, TEFL certificates, employment letters, driving licences, passports, academic certificates, and HMRC documents.
Business Documents: Includes digital versions of the certificate of incorporation, memorandum of association, articles of association, Companies House documents, company registers, company accounts, share certificates, and certificate of free sale.
How to Obtain an E-Apostille
Order Online: Upload your digital documents through our online platform and complete the payment.
Order by Email: Email your digital documents to us along with your contact details, and we will guide you through the payment process.
Advantages of E-Apostille
Speed: E-apostille services can typically be completed in just a few days, making it a faster option than traditional methods.
Convenience: Submit and receive your documents digitally without the need for physical postage.
Security: Uses secure digital signatures to authenticate the documents.
Costs and Turnaround Time
The application fee per document is £45 for paper applications, but this may vary if you wish to apply through a professional or opt for priority services or require additional services such as document certification. The general processing time for paper applications is up to 20 working days. For e-apostille services, the processing time is typically 2 business days. For a detailed quote, please contact us with the list of documents you wish to apostille and your required timeline.
Why Choose CCS Law?
At CCS Law, we provide expert apostille services and document certification to ensure your documents meet all necessary legalisation requirements. Our experienced team handles the entire process, from certification to obtaining an apostille.
Our Services Include:
Certification of documents.
Apostille services from the FCDO.
E-apostille for digital documents.
Guidance and support throughout the process.
Legalising documents for use abroad can be complex, but with CCS Law, you can be assured of a smooth and efficient process. Whether you need personal or commercial documents legalised, our expert team is here to help.
For more information on our apostille services and document certification, or to start your legalisation process, contact us today.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.