What Is Embassy Attestation?
Embassy attestation is the process of confirming that your documents are genuine and legally recognised by a country’s embassy or consulate.
It’s often required for work, study, immigration, or legal matters abroad, and applies to documents such as educational certificates, marriage certificates, and powers of attorney.
In short, embassy attestation makes sure your documents are valid and accepted in your destination country.
Country Legalisation Guide
Legalising UK documents for use abroad ensures they are recognised by foreign authorities for business transactions, education, marriage, residency, or other purposes. The process varies depending on the destination country’s requirements. For countries in the Hague Apostille Convention (1961), a single apostille certificate, issued by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), authenticates your document. Non-Hague countries may require additional embassy or consular legalisation, involving further verification.
Common documents needing legalisation include birth certificates, degree certificates, and powers of attorney. The process ensures your documents are legally valid internationally, saving time and avoiding delays. This guide explains the steps, costs, and timelines for UK document legalisation, whether you need an apostille or embassy attestation.
Need help? Contact our UK apostille and legalisation services for expert assistance tailored to your destination country.
Hague Apostille Convention Countries
Countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention accept an apostille certificate issued by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) as sufficient for document legalisation. No further embassy or consular attestation is typically required, making the process quick and efficient. Over 125 countries are members, including:
- Australia
- Brazil
- Canada (joined January 11, 2024)
- Germany
- India
- Italy
- Japan
- United States
View the full list of Hague Convention countries. For these countries, Fast Track Apostille can provide next-day apostille services for eligible UK documents.
Note: Some member countries may occasionally request additional certifications before issuing an apostille. Always confirm requirements with the requesting authority.
Non-Hague Convention Countries
For countries outside the Hague Apostille Convention, an apostille may still be required, followed by further legalisation or attestation at the destination country’s embassy or consulate in the UK. This process usually takes longer and may involve higher costs. Examples of non-member countries include:
- Afghanistan
- Egypt
- United Arab Emirates (UAE)*
- Vietnam
- Yemen
For non-Hague countries, fees vary depending on the embassy. Contact us for help with consular legalisation.
*The UAE has transitioned to a digital attestation service for UK documents. Contact us for details on specific embassy requirements.
Process
1. Obtain an apostille from the FCDO (if required by the embassy).
2. Submit the apostilled document to the relevant embassy or consulate for attestation.
3. Provide additional information for the certifying authority, such as full name, capacity, address, phone number, and email, if requested.
Not all countries have active embassies in the UK, which may complicate the process. Our team can guide you through embassy attestation requirements and fees. Contact us for assistance.
For non-Hague countries, fees vary by embassy. Contact us for assistance with consular legalisation.
Why Choose Fast Track Apostille?
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