Apostilles & Legalisation
If a document is going to be used abroad, the authorities there will often want proof that it is genuine. As a notary public in Sale, I can notarise your document and then arrange the apostille and any embassy legalisation needed, so you do not have to deal with the Foreign Office or consulates yourself.
What is legalisation?
After a document has been certified by a notary, the notary’s authority to act as such also often needs to be authenticated. This process is known as legalisation.
For many countries, legalisation simply means obtaining an apostille from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), which confirms the validity of the notary’s signature and seal. Some countries require further legalisation by their own consulate or embassy in England.
How it works
- Send me a copy. Email me the document and tell me which country it is for. I will tell you what is needed and give you a quote.
- Notarisation. We meet in Sale or Swinton, or at your home or office by arrangement, and I witness or certify the document.
- Apostille. I obtain the apostille from the FCDO.
- Embassy legalisation, if required. Where the country requires it, I arrange legalisation with its consulate or embassy.
- Return. The completed document is returned to you or sent directly abroad.
Cost and timescales
The fee for the issue of an apostille currently ranges from approximately £35 to £100, depending on the level of service and how quickly the document is required. The standard postal service is the least expensive but takes three to four days, while a same-day premium service can be obtained on a ‘while you wait’ basis, commonly via an agent. Consular legalisation costs vary greatly depending on the country and the type of document.
I will always tell you about these costs before incurring them. See my fees page for how I charge.