Ensure your UK documents are internationally recognised with CG Incorporations’ expert apostille and legalisation services.
What Is an Apostille?
An apostille is a certificate that authenticates the origin of a UK public document, such as a birth certificate, degree, or company incorporation certificate. It is issued under the 1961 Hague Convention, allowing documents to be recognised in member countries without further legalisation.
In the UK, apostilles are issued by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). Apostille services are vital for individuals and businesses engaged in activities such as studying, working, marrying, or expanding operations abroad.
What Is Legalisation?
Legalisation is required when presenting UK documents in countries that are not signatories to the Hague Convention. The process typically involves:
- Notarisation by a UK solicitor or notary public (if required)
- Certification by the FCDO
- Final legalisation by the embassy or consulate of the destination country
Legalisation ensures that your documents meet the specific authentication requirements of non-Hague Convention countries, supporting various international transactions and legal processes.
Apostille vs. Legalisation: Key Differences
| Feature | Apostille | Legalisation |
|---|---|---|
| Applicable Countries | Hague Convention members | Non-Hague Convention countries |
| Issuing Authority | FCDO in the UK | FCDO and foreign embassy or consulate |
| Process Complexity | Single-step process | Multi-step process |
| Timeframe | Generally quicker | Can take longer |
| Cost | Typically lower | Can be higher due to additional embassy fees |
Common Documents Requiring Apostille or Legalisation
- Birth, marriage, and death certificates
- Academic diplomas and transcripts
- Power of attorney documents
- Company incorporation and registration documents
- Court orders and legal judgments
- Medical certificates
It is always advisable to check the exact requirements of the destination country, as they may vary.
How CG Incorporations Can Help
At CG Incorporations, we offer a complete range of apostille and document legalisation services to meet your international requirements. We manage the entire process, saving you time and ensuring your documents are processed correctly.
Our Services Include:
- Document review and preparation
- Notarisation by a qualified solicitor or notary public
- Submission to the FCDO for apostille certification
- Coordination with foreign embassies and consulates for legalisation
- Secure tracked delivery of your processed documents
With years of experience, we make sure your documents are authenticated smoothly, giving you peace of mind when conducting business or personal affairs internationally.
Get Started Today
Ensure your UK documents are accepted worldwide with CG Incorporations' professional apostille and legalisation services. Contact us today to discuss your needs and receive a personalised quote.
For more information, visit our Apostille and Legalisation Services page.
Published: 6/6/2025 9:16:25 AM. Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice.
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