What legalisation means
Legalisation confirms that a signature, seal or stamp on a public document is genuine. Many countries accept an Apostille issued by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office under the Hague Convention.
Consular legalisation
Some countries require a further verification from their embassy or consulate after the FCDO stage — for example certain destinations in the Middle East, Asia or Africa. We can arrange the complete process and return the documents by secure post or courier.
Common questions
- How long does an Apostille take?
- Standard FCDO processing is usually a few working days; a same-day service may be available for urgent matters at additional cost.
- Do I need consular legalisation as well?
- Only for countries outside the Hague Apostille system, or where the receiving authority specifically requires an embassy stamp. Tell us the destination country and we will confirm which stages apply.
- Can you handle the whole process?
- Yes. Once notarisation is complete we can submit documents for the Apostille and, where required, consular legalisation, then return them to you or to the overseas recipient.