How do I apply for an e-apostille?

Applying for a UK e-Apostille requires a PDF document electronically signed by a UK solicitor or notary. You can then apply directly to the FCDO through their online portal or use an apostille service like ours to manage the solicitor/notary certification, electronic signature, and FCDO application.

This approach is suitable if you are comfortable with the technical requirements, have access to a solicitor/notary who can provide qualified electronic signatures, and your document is eligible. 

Steps:

• Document eligibility check: First, confirm that your document is eligible for an e-apostille. Remember that many common documents (birth, marriage, death certificates, ACRO/DBS certificates, etc.) are not eligible and always require a paper apostille.

• Solicitor/notary certification and electronic signature:
  • Find an FCDO-registered solicitor/notary: Locate an FCDO-registered solicitor or notary public who offers e-Apostille services and is equipped to provide qualified electronic signatures that meet the FCDO’s requirements. This is not a simple scanned signature; it’s a secure digital signature.
  • Document preparation: Provide the original document (or a copy, if appropriate) to the solicitor/notary. They will verify the document (potentially contacting the issuing authority if necessary) and create a PDF version.
  • Electronic signature: The solicitor/notary will apply their qualified electronic signature to the PDF document. This digitally signs the document and makes it eligible for the e-Apostille.

• FCDO online application:
  • Create an account: Register for an account on the FCDO’s online Legalisation Office portal (GOV.UK website).
  • Upload the document: Upload the electronically signed PDF document to the portal.
  • Pay the fee: Pay the FCDO’s e-apostille fee (£35 per document) online.
  • Check status: Use their online portal to check progress.

• FCDO processing and issuance:
  • The FCDO verifies the solicitor/notary’s electronic signature.
  • If everything is in order, the FCDO issues the e-Apostille, which is digitally attached to the PDF document.

• Download the e-apostilled document: Once the e-apostille is issued, you can download the completed PDF document (with the embedded e-apostille) from the FCDO portal. Crucially, you must download and save this file securely, as the FCDO deletes e-apostilles from its system after 21 days.

This approach is suitable if you prefer to have experts handle the entire process, including the solicitor/notary certification and the FCDO application. 

Steps:

• Choose a service: Select a reputable apostille service provider. Look for companies with experience in handling e-apostilles and transparent pricing.

• Document information: Provide the service with details about your document, the destination country, and specific requirements. They usually have an online order form or will guide you.

• Send the document (if required):
  • Many documents can now be processed electronically.
  • Depending on the service and the document type, you might need to send them a scanned copy or, in some cases, the original document (e.g., if they need to arrange for solicitor/notary certification and cannot work from a scan). The service will advise you on this.

• Solicitor/notary certification (handled by the service): The service will arrange for the necessary solicitor/notary certification and electronic signature. They will have established relationships with solicitors/notaries who are familiar with the e-apostille process.

• FCDO application (handled by the service): The service will submit the electronically signed PDF document to the FCDO on your behalf.

• Receive the e-Apostilled document: The service will receive the completed e-apostilled PDF from the FCDO and then provide it to you, usually by email or through a secure download link.

Which approach is best?

• Choose the DIY approach if: You have a simple document, are comfortable with technology, have access to a solicitor/notary who offers qualified electronic signatures, and want to save on service fees.
• Choose a professional service if: You have a complex document, need help with solicitor/notary certification, are unsure about the process, want to save time and effort, or prefer the peace of mind of having experts handle everything.

No matter which approach you choose, always double-check the eligibility of your document for an e-apostille before starting the process and confirm acceptance with the receiving authority in the destination country.