The Post Office in the UK cannot certify documents for apostille purposes. While some branches offer document certification, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Legalisation Office requires certification from a UK FCDO-registered solicitor or notary public for an apostille.
Why the post office certification usually isn’t enough:
While the Post Office staff provides a useful service, they are not typically legally qualified like Solicitors and Notaries Public.
The FCDO Legalisation Office has strict requirements to ensure the integrity of the apostille process, and Post Office certification does not meet those requirements.
Here’s a more detailed explanation:
- Post Office certification: The Post Office’s certification service usually involves checking a document against an original and confirming that it’s a “true copy.” They may add a stamp and signature to the copy. This is often used for everyday purposes, like applying for a bank account or proving your identity in the UK.
- Apostille requirements: The FCDO requires documents to be certified by a qualified public official whose signature is registered. This almost exclusively means:
These professionals have specific legal standing and are registered with their respective bodies. The FCDO can verify their credentials and the authenticity of their signatures and seals. The apostille verifies their authority, not just that the copy is accurate.
In short, you should not rely on Post Office certification if you need an apostille. You must have your documents certified by a UK FCDO-registered Solicitor or Notary Public.
They will know the specific requirements for preparing documents for the apostille process. Using a Solicitor or Notary Public ensures the document is prepared correctly, preventing delays and rejections.
