Notarisation and apostille do different jobs.
Learn how notarisation, certified copies, translations and apostilles differ, and how to check which steps your overseas document needs.
Check through the official verification service.
Find the official GOV.UK apostille verification service and the issue date and number you need to check a UK paper or electronic apostille.
An apostille, delivered digitally.
Understand UK e-Apostille eligibility, electronically signed PDFs, excluded documents and how to check the recipient’s requirements.
Paper apostilles for UK documents.
Check how paper apostilles work, which UK documents may need certification, and how to plan submission and delivery.
Four steps. One clear document route.
Follow the document assessment, preparation, legalisation and delivery process. Learn what to provide and what affects the timetable.
Know what is included before you proceed.
Understand the difference between official FCDO fees, professional certification and delivery costs. Request a quote for your document.
Start with the basics
Read the paper apostille and e-Apostille guides to understand the difference in format and preparation. Then check the guide for your document type. A digital-first preference cannot override a UK eligibility exclusion.
Separate the jobs involved
Notarisation, certification, translation and legalisation are different activities. Our comparison guide explains their roles so you can ask the recipient and service provider clear questions.
Use current official information
We link to GOV.UK and the Hague Conference on Private International Law where appropriate. Government requirements, fees and available services may change. Check the linked source and the review date when planning a time-sensitive application.
Turn a guide into a focused enquiry
Make a short list of the document, issuing country, destination, deadline and unanswered questions. Give the practice the recipient’s written instructions rather than relying only on a general internet checklist.
Common questions
Do these guides replace the receiving authority’s instructions?
No. They help you prepare the right questions. The organisation handling your overseas application determines its document requirements.
How do I check an apostille I have received?
Use the official GOV.UK verification service and the details printed on the apostille. See our verification guide.
Sources & review
- www.gov.uk/get-document-legalised
- www.hcch.net/en/instruments/conventions/specialised-sections/apostille
- www.gov.uk/verify-apostille
Reviewed 2026-10-22. Requirements can change. Check current official guidance and the receiving authority’s instructions before proceeding.