How to Get an e-Apostille: UK's Digital Legalisation of Documents

The introduction of e-apostilles has changed the process of legalising documents in the UK for international use. This article guides you through obtaining an e-apostille in the UK.

Understanding e-Apostilles

An e-apostille is a digital certificate that authenticates UK documents for international use, similar to the traditional paper apostille but issued electronically.

Historically, all apostilles were a paper certificate physically added to a document for use outside of the UK. Now, the apostille is a PDF document file, including both the apostille in digital form and the document it is legalising.

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting an e-Apostille

1. Check Document Eligibility: Ensure your document is eligible for an e-apostille. Not all documents can have the apostille. Only those that are certified and signed by a solicitor. Government documents like birth, marriage, and death certificates cannot have e-apostille, at present.
2. Prepare Your Document: Your document will need to be digitally certified by a UK public notary or solicitor. They will need to add an advanced digital signature to a PDF document.
3. Apply for the e-Apostille: The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) is the competent authority for issuing e-apostilles in the UK. Access their online platform for e-apostille application. Alternatively, use an Apostille Service for a complete service with the digital signature included.
4. Upload Your Document: Send you document to an Apostille Service for upload to the FCDO, or submit your document electronically on the FCDO’s platform. Ensure the document has a recognised digital signature and suitable certification.
5. Payment of Fees: Pay the applicable fee for the e-apostille.
6. Wait for Processing: The processing time for an e-apostille is typically 24 to 48 hours, although it may vary based on the FCDO processing times and whether you have prepared the PDF document correctly.
7. Receive the e-Apostille: Once processed, you will receive the e-apostille as a PDF attachment along with the authenticated document. This digital certificate will contain digital signatures from the legalisation officer for authenticity.
8. Verify the e-Apostille: Always verify the e-apostille, especially if you're submitting it to foreign authorities. This can usually be done via a QR code or an online verification system provided by the FCDO.

Advantages of e-Apostilles

• Faster processing as there is no delay with posting documents
• No risk of document loss or damage as no physical shipping is involved
• Environmentally friendly as there is no paper
• Easily shared around the world

Limitations to Consider

• Not all countries accept e-apostilles and may request the paper version
• Not suitable for all types of documents

Conclusion

The e-apostille service can make document legalisation quick and efficient. By following the steps outlined, you can obtain an apostille in just a few hours. If you need assistance, contact us for a complete electronic apostille service.