Often, documents need to be further authenticated by a process called legalisation. This involves the Foreign and Commonwealth Office confirming the validity of the notary’s signature, stamp and seal. The requirement for this will depend on the foreign country involved. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office’s official certificate is attached to the document and this is known as an Apostille. Apostilles are internationally recognised under The Hague Convention. Furthermore, some countries require additional legalisation at their UK Embassy or Consulate Office.

I can arrange for any legalisation requirement to be carried out and advise on the costs and timescales involved.