The apostille achieves the verification of the document it is attached to. It guarantees the document is the original or a certified copy and that it originated from the UK.
Every member country of the Hague Convention must keep a database of the apostilles they have issued.
When an apostille is issued, it has a unique number assigned to it. The apostille number and details surrounding the apostille are added to the database.
Apostille databases are public, which allows the receiving country to look up the apostille if there are concerns about its authenticity of the apostille.
The UK also keeps a database of its public notaries, approved public officials, and their individual signatures.
When the apostille is issued, this database is consulted to confirm a genuine signature from a public official or notary as well as their genuine seal.
Remember, the apostille does not certify the contents or accuracy of the document it is attached to.
