The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) is a government department responsible for promoting the UK’s interests overseas.
This includes fostering international relations, supporting development initiatives, and providing services to British citizens abroad.
One crucial service offered by the FCDO is the issuance of apostilles.
The FCDO:
The sole authority for apostilles in the UK
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) holds the exclusive authority to issue apostilles within the United Kingdom.
This means that only apostilles issued by the FCDO guarantee the authenticity and legal acceptance of your UK documents abroad.
The FCDO was formed in 2020 through a merger of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) and the Department for International Development.
This merger aimed to streamline government operations and improve efficiency in the UK’s foreign affairs.
Apostille issuance update: London office closure!
It’s important to note that the FCDO’s premium same-day apostille service, previously offered in their London office, is no longer available.
You must apply through the main FCDO legalisation office in Milton Keynes to obtain an apostille for your UK documents.
How to apply:
Visit the official FCDO website https://www.gov.uk/get-document-legalised for detailed instructions on the application process, including required forms, fees, and processing times.
Importance of FCDO-issued apostilles
When using UK documents in a foreign country, an apostille issued by the FCDO is crucial for ensuring their authenticity and acceptance. Here’s why:
In short, an FCDO-issued apostille provides peace of mind, knowing that your UK documents will be trusted and accepted for their intended use abroad.
Types of apostilles issued by the FCDO
The FCDO offers two primary types of apostilles to accommodate different needs and international requirements:
Choosing the right type: It’s essential to check with the foreign authorities where you intend to use your documents to determine whether they require or accept a traditional paper apostille or the e-apostille.
Security features of apostilles
FCDO-issued apostilles incorporate various security features to ensure authenticity and prevent fraud. These features can include:
Processing times and fees
The FCDO offers standard and expedited services for apostille issuance:
Common types of documents requiring an apostille
Some of the UK documents that most frequently require an apostille include:
More details can be found by reading our article on what documents the FCDO can legalise.
International acceptance of FCDO apostilles
The FCDO is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, a treaty that ensures the widespread recognition of apostilles issued by member states.
Many countries worldwide accept FCDO-issued apostilles, simplifying the use of UK documents abroad.
Important note: Always verify the specific requirements with the foreign authority or institution where you plan to use your documents.
Image: © Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (United Kingdom)