Before documents can be apostilled or legalised for international use,
many must first undergo certification. Depending on the purpose—whether
legal, medical, educational, or business—different types of documents
may require official certification to confirm their authenticity and
validity. This page provides a comprehensive overview of documents
requiring certification in the UK and abroad, helping individuals and
organisations understand which documents need to be certified, by whom,
and why. Ensure your paperwork meets the necessary legal and regulatory
standards with our up-to-date certification guide.
Original documents/certificates must contain a wet ink signature or wet ink/embossed seal and date from the issuing authority
Original documents, photocopies, or printouts must be certified by a UK Solicitor or Notary Public before submission
When it comes to legalising your documents for international use, you need a partner that’s fast, reliable, and professional. At 1st Apostille, we stand out as the UK’s premier choice for apostille services, embassy attestation, and certified translations. Here’s why thousands of clients trust us to make their global dreams a reality in 2025.
Time is precious, and we get it. Our 24-hour apostille service ensures your documents—be it birth certificates, marriage records, degrees, or business contracts—are legalised and ready for use. No delays, no stress, just results.
As an FCDO-registered provider, we adhere to the highest standards set by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office. Your documents are processed with precision, ensuring they’re recognised worldwide without question.
Planning to work or marry in non-Hague countries like the UAE, Qatar, or Vietnam? Our embassy attestation services cover every step—from solicitor certification to FCDO apostille and embassy stamping. We handle the complexities, so you don’t have to.
Language barriers? Not with us. Our certified translation services ensure your documents meet the linguistic requirements of your destination country, whether it’s Spanish for a wedding in Mexico or Arabic for a job in Dubai.
We’re more than a service—we’re your partner. With transparent pricing, real-time digital tracking, and eco-friendly e-apostille options, we make the process seamless. Our experienced team stays updated on 2025 regulations, including post-Brexit changes, to keep your plans on track.
We're happy to answer your questions.
We have a team of trained legalisation experts on hand to guide you through the apostille process. Whether you're unsure about how to get started, need clarification on pricing, or want to confirm which documents require legalisation, we're here to help.
Common questions we answer:
