The Apostille system is governed by the Hague Convention of 1961, which simplifies the process of certifying public documents for international use between participating countries. That’s why you may hear terms like “Hague Apostille” or “Apostille of the Hague”—they refer to this international agreement.

The Convention eliminates the need for further legalisation by the destination country, making cross-border transactions and legal processes more efficient.

An apostille acts as a universal stamp of authenticity, often required for:

• International business transactions.
• Overseas property matters.
• Immigration and visa applications.
• Academic and professional qualifications.
• Personal documents like birth or marriage certificates.

For example, if someone in Spain needs to verify your UK birth certificate, an apostille confirms its legitimacy—giving confidence that the document is official and trustworthy.

1. A notary or registrar certifies the document (e.g. confirming a signature or registering a birth).
2. The Legalisation Office of the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) verifies the signature and seal.
3. The apostille certificate is attached, making the document legally valid in other Hague Convention countries.

Documents that can be apostilled include:

• Public documents (e.g. birth, marriage, death certificates).
• Administrative documents (e.g. letters from HMRC).
• Notarised documents (e.g. powers of attorney, declarations).

An apostille is a formal-looking paper certificate, typically affixed to the back of the notarised or official document, or sometimes attached with a ribbon or seal. It’s issued by the Legalisation Office of the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and follows a strict format set by the Hague Apostille Convention.

Here’s what it includes:

Key Features of a UK Apostille Certificate

1. Country of issue–e.g. United Kingdom.
2. Name of the official–the notary or registrar who signed the document.
3. Capacity of the official–e.g. Notary Public, Judge, Registrar.
4. Seal or stamp–confirmation that the official’s seal is genuine.
5. Place of issue–typically London or Milton Keynes.
6. Date of issue.
7. Issuing authority–UK FCDO.
8. Unique reference number.
9. Embossed seal of the FCDO.
10. Signature of the FCDO office.

Let me know if you’d like help identifying whether your document qualifies for an apostille or how to get one expedited.

You can verify a UK Apostille using this link:  https://www.gov.uk/verify-apostille

You can apply directly through the Legalisation Office, or work with a Notary Public like Abraham Khan, who uses the Legalisation Office Business Service for faster processing. Documents are typically dropped off and collected the next working day.

If you need help understanding what an apostille is—or you need your documents apostilled quickly and reliably—Abraham Khan can assist. We offer guaranteed turnaround and expert guidance throughout the process.

Some documents can be apostilled directly, while others must first be certified by a Notary Public. Here’s a breakdown:

Documents Requiring Notary Certification First:

• Statutory declarations.
• Decree absolute.
• Powers of attorney.
• Companies House documents.
• Certified copies of passports.
• Medical certificates.
• Certificate of Good Standing.
• Certificates of naturalisation.
• DBS certificates.
• Certified copies of degree certificates.
• Affidavits.
• HMRC letters.

Documents Eligible for Direct Apostille:

• Marriage certificates.
• Death certificates.
• Certificates of no impediment.
• Medical certificates.
• Birth certificates.
• ACRO police certificates.
• HMRC letters.

Note: These documents must bear a ‘wet ink’ signature from an issuing officer who is registered with the FCDO. While doctors are eligible to have their signatures apostilled, many are not registered, so it’s important to confirm this before submitting a medical certificate.

Not all countries accept apostilles. Apostilles are recognised only by countries that are signatories to the Hague Apostille Convention, which includes:

• The United States.
• All EU member states.
• Many others across Asia, Latin America, and Africa.

If your destination country is not a signatory, you may need consular legalisation—a process involving authentication by the relevant embassy or consulate.

Some Commonwealth countries (e.g. Australia, Canada, South Africa) may not require apostilles or legalisation, but requirements can vary. It’s always best to check with the receiving authority to confirm what’s needed.