The type of certification depends on the document and its purpose. Examples include:

• Certified copy – confirming a copy is a true and accurate reproduction of the original.
  
• Certified original – confirming the authenticity of the original document.
  
• Signature witnessing – stating that the solicitor saw the document being signed, using phrases such as "signed in my presence" or "witnessed by".
  

For apostille purposes, certification must be done correctly:

• The solicitor must sign in their own name (not the firm’s name).
• The date must be clearly shown.
• The wording must match the document type and intended use.

Incorrect certification is one of the most common reasons for FCDO rejection.

Some official UK documents already contain a recognised public official’s signature or stamp, meaning they can be sent directly for apostille legalisation without solicitor involvement. Common examples include:

• UK birth certificates and marriage certificates
• Court-issued documents
• HMRC letters and official tax documents

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:

• How do I place an order?
• How much does an apostille cost?
• Which documents need legalising for my destination country?
• How long does the process take?
• What's the difference between apostille and embassy legalisation?