The Complete Guide To Getting An Apostille In The UK
What Is an Apostille?
An Apostille is a certificate issued by the UK Legalisation Office (FCDO) that verifies the authenticity of a document for international use. If you need to use a UK document in another country, an Apostille ensures it is legally recognized under the Hague Apostille Convention.
Many documents require Apostille certification, including:
✔️ Birth, marriage, and death certificates
✔️ Academic qualifications
✔️ Powers of attorney
✔️ Business contracts and incorporation documents
✔️ Court-issued legal papers
Digi Notary provides fast, affordable, and hassle-free Apostille services, ensuring your documents meet all legalisation requirements.
Who Needs an Apostille?
An Apostille is required when:
✔️ You are relocating abroad for work, study, or personal reasons.
✔️ You need to prove your qualifications in a foreign country.
✔️ You are getting married overseas and need a No Objection Certificate (NOC).
✔️ A company needs to validate its documents for international business.
✔️ You are handling legal or property matters abroad.
If you are unsure whether you need an Apostille, contact Digi Notary for expert guidance.
How to Get an Apostille in the UK
The Apostille process involves verifying the document and attaching the official Apostille certificate.
Step 1: Check If Your Document Needs an Apostille
There are two types of documents:
👉 Direct Apostille – Some UK-issued documents (e.g., birth/marriage certificates, court documents) can be Apostilled without additional steps.
👉 Notary Certification Required – Private documents (e.g., powers of attorney, contracts, passports) must first be notarized before obtaining an Apostille.
Digi Notary Can Help
We provide notarisation and certification to ensure your documents are eligible for Apostille legalisation.
Step 2: Get Your Document Notarized (If Required)
If your document needs notarisation, Digi Notary offers immediate notarisation services. This includes:
✅ Verifying the identity of the signer
✅ Witnessing the signing of the document
✅ Applying the official notarial seal
Our Standard Notarisation fee is £65.
Step 3: Submit Your Document for Apostille
Once notarized, your document is ready for Apostille legalisation. You can choose:
| Apostille Service | Price (Includes Notary Certification & FCDO Fees) | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Paper Apostille | £110 | 5-7 working days |
| Electronic Apostille (e-Apostille) | £90 | 2 working days |
What’s Included?
✔️ Notary Certification (if required)
✔️ FCDO Legalisation Fees
✔️ Secure processing and delivery
Our e-Apostille service offers a fully digital Apostille for fast, international use.
Apostille for Different Document Types
1. Birth, Marriage, and Death Certificates
✅ Issued by the General Register Office (GRO)
✅ Can be Apostilled directly without notarisation
2. Educational Documents
✅ Must be notarized before Apostille processing
✅ Used for work, study, and immigration purposes
3. Powers of Attorney & Legal Documents
✅ Must be notarized before Apostille legalisation
✅ Common for property transactions and legal matters abroad
4. Business & Corporate Documents
✅ Includes Certificates of Incorporation, Good Standing, contracts, agreements
✅ Must be notarized if not issued by Companies House
Electronic Apostille (e-Apostille) – Faster & More Convenient
Digi Notary offers e-Apostille services, a digital alternative to the traditional paper Apostille.
✔️ Faster processing (2 working days)
✔️ Delivered electronically in secure PDF format
✔️ Accepted by most countries under the Hague Apostille Convention
Not all documents are eligible for e-Apostille. Contact us to check if your document qualifies.
Common Apostille Mistakes to Avoid
🚫 Submitting Incorrect Documents – Some documents need notarisation first before legalisation.
🚫 Using Old or Unofficial Copies – Only official or certified copies are accepted.
🚫 Not Confirming Apostille Requirements – Each country has different rules. Verify before applying.
🚫 Delays Due to Errors – Incorrect names, missing certifications, and incomplete forms can lead to rejection.
📌 Need help? Digi Notary ensures your documents meet all legalisation requirements.
How Digi Notary Can Help
Digi Notary offers:
✅ Notarisation Services – Immediate notarisation for Apostille applications.
✅ Expert Guidance – Ensuring compliance with international legalisation rules.
✅ Fast & Secure Processing – Efficient Apostille certification with tracking.
✅ Flexible Online & In-Person Services – Choose remote or in-office appointments.
📞 Book an Appointment Today!
Need an Apostille? Get in touch with Digi Notary for a stress-free service!
FAQs About Apostilles
Q: What is the difference between notarisation and an Apostille?
A: Notarisation is the process where a notary public verifies a document’s authenticity. The Apostille is a UK government certificate confirming the document’s validity for international use.
Q: How long does it take to get an Apostille?
A: The standard paper Apostille takes 5-7 working days, while an e-Apostille takes 2 working days.
Q: Can Digi Notary help with Apostille legalisation?
A: Yes! We notarize, certify, and assist with Apostille processing, ensuring compliance with UK and international laws.
Q: Do I need an Apostille for documents used in the UK?
A: No, Apostilles are only required for international use in Hague Convention countries.
Q: Can I get an Apostille for a photocopy of a document?
A: Only if the copy is certified by a UK notary public.
Q: Where do I send my documents for an Apostille?
A: You can submit them to the UK Legalisation Office or use Digi Notary’s Apostille service for fast and secure processing.
📍 For professional notarisation and Apostille services in the UK, trust Digi Notary!
🔗 Book your appointment today by filling the enquiry form below: