Complete Guide to Apostille Services in the UK (2025 Update)
Obtaining an apostille for your documents is a critical step when you need to use official papers abroad. If you are looking to get an apostille in the UK in 2025, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know — from what an apostille is, the documents eligible for apostille, the step-by-step process, fees involved, to the average processing time. Additionally, we will provide links to official UK government sources and tips to ensure your application goes smoothly.
What is an Apostille?
An apostille is a form of authentication issued to documents for international use under the Hague Convention of 1961. It certifies the origin of a public document, verifying its authenticity so it will be legally recognized in countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention.
If you plan to use UK-issued documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, or legal contracts abroad, an apostille is often mandatory to prove their validity.
Which Documents Can Be Apostilled in the UK?
The following types of documents are typically eligible for an apostille:
Birth, marriage, death certificates issued by UK authorities
Court documents and affidavits
Educational certificates and transcripts
Powers of attorney
Business documents, such as certificates of incorporation or company resolutions
Notarized documents and statutory declarations
It is important that the document is an original or certified copy issued by a competent UK authority.
Who Issues Apostilles in the UK?
In the UK, apostilles are issued by the Legalisation Office of the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). The FCDO is the official authority that verifies and certifies documents for international use under the Hague Convention.
You can apply for an apostille directly through the FCDO either by post or online.
Official source: FCDO Legalisation Office
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting an Apostille in the UK (2025)
Step 1: Verify Your Document’s Eligibility
Before applying, ensure your document is original and issued by the relevant UK authority. Check that the document requires an apostille for use in your destination country.
Step 2: Prepare Your Document
If your document requires notarization or certification before apostille, complete those steps first. For example, some educational documents need to be certified by the issuing institution.
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
You can apply:
Online via the FCDO website
By post, sending your document with the completed form and payment
Online applications tend to be faster and allow tracking.
Step 4: Pay the Fee
As of 2025, the standard fee for an apostille is £30 per document.
Payment methods vary depending on application method (credit/debit card online, cheque/postal order by mail).
Step 5: Submit Your Document
If applying online, send your original document to the address provided by the FCDO after completing the online form.
If applying by post, mail your document, form, and payment to the FCDO Legalisation Office.
Step 6: Wait for Processing
The FCDO aims to process apostille requests within 3–5 working days, but times may vary depending on volume.
Step 7: Receive Your Apostilled Document
Your document will be returned with the apostille certificate attached, either by post or courier.
How to Apply Online
Applying online is the most convenient way. The FCDO provides a secure portal where you fill out the form, pay the fee, print a postage label, and send your document by Royal Mail.
Visit: https://www.gov.uk/get-document-legalised
Common Uses for Apostilled Documents
Immigration and visa applications
International business contracts
Foreign university admissions
Marriage abroad
Legal proceedings in foreign countries
Important Tips for a Smooth Apostille Process
Double-check the destination country’s requirements to confirm if an apostille is accepted or if additional embassy attestation is needed.
Use original documents or certified copies only.
If your document is not issued in England and Wales (e.g., Scotland or Northern Ireland), check the respective authority for apostille.
Keep copies of all documents you send.
Use secure and tracked postal services when sending your documents.
Additional Authentication (If Required)
Some countries may require further legalization by their embassy or consulate after apostille. Confirm with the embassy whether this applies.
Summary
Getting an apostille in the UK in 2025 remains a straightforward process, primarily handled by the FCDO Legalisation Office. By understanding the steps, fees, and document requirements, you can ensure your documents are correctly legalized for international use.
For the latest updates and to start your application, always refer to the official UK government website: https://www.gov.uk/get-document-legalised.
External References
UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office – Legalisation Office: https://www.gov.uk/get-document-legalised
Hague Conference on Private International Law – Apostille Convention: https://www.hcch.net/en/instruments/conventions/full-text/?cid=41
UK General Register Office (for birth/marriage certificates): https://www.gro.gov.uk/gro/content/
