Check the purpose and document version
A marriage record may be requested for a family, nationality, name or administrative matter. Ask the receiving body whether an official certificate is required and whether there is an issue-date requirement. These are recipient requirements, not a universal rule.
Use the paper apostille route for GRO documents
General Register Office documents, including marriage certificates, are excluded from the UK e-Apostille service. Check the physical certificate and its issuing authority before arranging submission.
Replace a missing certificate through the official route
GOV.UK links to the General Register Office ordering service for England and Wales and to separate services for Scotland and Northern Ireland. Order the correct record before booking time-sensitive legalisation.
Coordinate the surrounding paperwork
Ask whether your recipient also needs identity evidence, birth records, a translation or another supporting document. Agree whether each paper needs a separate apostille. A clear list at the start helps avoid repeated handling.
Common questions
Does one apostille cover both spouses’ documents?
An apostille relates to the document or permitted document set being legalised. Ask the recipient which individual records and apostilles it requires.
Can a scan replace the original certificate?
Do not assume so. Ask which form the receiving organisation will accept and arrange the legalisation route for that form.
Sources & review
Reviewed 2026-10-22. Requirements can change. Check current official guidance and the receiving authority’s instructions before proceeding.