Need a Basic DBS Check for overseas use? This guide walks you through getting a Basic DBS from the UK government’s website, have it certified and apostilled, so you’re ready for your move. Topics covered in this article > Getting your DBS Getting your DBS certified Certify a copy or original? Solicitor or notary public? Getting your DBS apostilled Embassy attestation (if needed) Step one: Getting your DBS What you’ll need: Proof of identity and address (past 5 years) Internet access (recommended) Payment for the DBS check and apostille service (fees vary) Steps: Apply online ..read more

Although apostilles don’t have expiration dates, some overseas authorities might reject older documents, causing delays and frustrations for those relying on them. This is especially relevant for apostilles issued more than a decade ago. The first step you could take is to ask the requesting authority if they would accept the existing apostille certificate. Send them a scan of your existing apostille and ask them if they would accept it as it is. If they don’t accept your old apostille certificate, this article outlines steps to take to either verify an old apostille certificate or how to get ..read more

In a world where the authenticity of official documents is paramount, the UK apostille, a certificate of legitimacy, plays a crucial role. Yet, obtaining an apostille is shrouded in mystery for many, leaving room for opportunistic scams. Imagine the frustration of needing an apostille for an important document only to fall prey to a fraudulent service. This reality is not uncommon. With many apostille services available, it’s essential to discern the real from the fake. In this article, we’ll delve into the common scams and provide practical tips to ensure the apostille you receive is genuine ..read more

An explanation of how electronic signatures are used to obtain an e-apostille, including the specific steps and requirements involved. Topics covered in this article > Introduction to e-signatures Issuers of e-signatures in the UK Electronic signature technicalities Solicitors and notaries: e-signature essentials Obtaining e-apostilles: process and steps E-apostille: security measures Advantages of e-signatures in e-apostilles E-apostille: eligibility and constraints Electronic signature: challenges E-apostille: future prospects Cost analysis: e-apostilles vs. traditional Introduct ..read more

Topics covered in this article > Overview of certifying academic copies How to legalise a copy with an apostille What solicitors or notaries require Common reasons for using copies Topics covered > Overview of certifying copies How to legalise a copy What solicitors or notaries require Common reasons for using copies If your original degree is misplaced, damaged, or archived, learn how to turn your degree copy into an internationally legalised document. The copy must be certified as a true copy by an FCDO-registered solicitor or notary in the UK. Some countries, especially ..read more

The adoption of the e-apostille has been increasingly widespread among various countries and authorities, offering a digital solution for authenticating documents internationally. However, it’s essential to recognise that not every requesting authority within these countries may be familiar with or accept the e-apostille. Whether you’re an individual seeking to authenticate personal documents for international study or employment or a business professional handling international transactions, the e-Apostille is your gateway to a smoother, more secure experience. Considerations when using e ..read more

How to register or verify a signature: If your document has been rejected Registering a signature with the FCDO Register or verify a GRO signature Register or verify a Doctor’s signature Receiving news that your document has been rejected by the FCDO (Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office) can be both frustrating and disheartening. We understand the inconvenience this may cause, especially when time-sensitive matters are at hand. We recognise the complexities inherent in the apostille legalisation process, especially regarding signature verifications with the FC ..read more

Some people find getting an apostille for a Declaration of Value (Italian: Dichiarazione di Valore) both daunting and frustrating – especially in Italy. In this guide, we aim to explain the process of getting an apostille as simply as possible. Both from getting it from the UK and in Italy. This article assumes that you have already obtained your Declaration of Value from: The Italian embassy in London [1] or, From one of the Italian consulates in the UK [2] or, In Italy, from the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Rome [3]. Declaration of Value Form (direct download) Topics covere ..read more

Apostilles meet the digital age. A case study of e-apostilles, their use, and trends. Summary of key finding of the e-Apostille case study: Since 2016, over 11 million e-apostilles have been issued worldwide. Since 2018, over 2 million e-apostilles are issued worldwide every year. 2019 marked a historic high in the number of e-apostilles issued worldwide (3.5 million). 34% of all countries in the Hague Conference issue and accept e-Apostilles. 41 Contracting Parties have implemented one or both e-APP’s components. Based on our forecast sheet, about 4.1 million e-apostill ..read more

When applying for legalisation, you may be asked to provide a certified copy of your documents. The certification confirms the validity of a document and is used as a tool against fraud. As such, you must seek the services of a qualified UK solicitor, notary public, or the relevant authorities to get your documents certified. The certification assures requesting authorities that your documents(s) are a true copy of the original. This guide examines what a certified copy is – when a certified copy is required, who can certify a document and what format the certification should take, and t ..read more