Flag of NigeriaLegalising UK documents for Nigeria

Nigeria is not party to the 1961 Hague Apostille Convention, so every UK document must pass through two UK stages before it will be accepted by Nigerian authorities:

  1. UK FCDO apostille (after solicitor/notary certification where required)
  2. Consular legalisation at the Nigerian High Commission in London

We are an FCDO-registered agent and make daily visits to the UK’s only Apostille Office in Milton Keynes to lodge and collect documents on behalf of our clients.

Required documents for submission at the Nigerian High Commissioin in London

  • 1

    The original apostilled document.

  • 2

    A photocopy of the apostilled document.

  • 3
    A photocopy of your passport.
  • 4

    Include a cover letter to the High Commissioner.
    (download sample letter)

Payment method: Postal order payable to “Nigeria High Commission” only.

Processing time: Typically, between 5 to 10 working days.

The Nigerian High Commission in London does not offer an expedited service.

Document bundles:

  • Accepted: The Nigerian High Commission allows document bundles, where multiple documents are attached and apostilled as a single entity.

Documents from UK Crown Dependencies and Overseas Territories

  • Certification: Documents issued in UK Crown Dependencies (Isle of Man, Guernsey, Jersey) and UK Overseas Territories (e.g., Anguilla, Bermuda) may need to be notarised by a local Notary Public.

  • Apostille: Obtain an apostille from the country of origin. For recognition by the Nigerian High Commission in London, a UK FCDO apostille is not required once documents have been legalised in the country of origin.

E-Apostilles

  • Not accepted: The Nigerian High Commission does not accept electronic apostilles. Ensure you obtain a physical apostille certificate.

We can help legalise a wide range of documents, including:

  • 1
    Educational: Degrees, transcripts, diplomas.
  • 2
    Personal: Birth certificates, marriage certificates, death certificates.
  • 3
    Commercial: Contracts, invoices, certificates of incorporation.

Document submissions and returns

If you are not submitting documents in person, include a self-addressed, prepaid envelope for the attested document to be returned.

Opening hours: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm, Monday to Friday

Legalising your UK documents for use in Nigeria involves a multi-step process that requires attention to detail.

Following this guide and ensuring all requirements are met, you can facilitate a smooth legalisation process and ensure Nigerian authorities accept your documents.