Get An Apostille UK – Getting an apostille in the UK can be a daunting task. An apostille is a certificate that authenticates the origin of a public document. It is a stamp that is added to a document by a government agency to prove that it is genuine and can be used in another country. This article will guide you on how to get an apostille in the UK. PT. Jangkar Global Groups
What is an Apostille?
An apostille is a certificate issued by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) in the UK. It is attached to a document to certify that it is genuine and can be used in another country. This certificate is recognized by all countries that are party to the Hague Convention.
The Hague Convention abolished the requirement for legalisation of foreign public documents. Instead, a country that is party to the convention can accept an apostilled document as proof of its authenticity.
Why Do You Need An Apostille?
If you are planning to use a UK public document overseas, you may need an apostille. This includes documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and educational certificates. Without an apostille, your documents may not be recognized as genuine and may not be accepted in another country.
How To Get An Apostille UK
Getting an apostille in the UK is a straightforward process. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Check If You Need An Apostille
The first step is to check if you need an apostille. Not all documents require an apostille, and some countries may have specific requirements.
You can check if you need an apostille by contacting the embassy or consulate of the country where you plan to use the document.
Step 2: Obtain The Document
The second step is to obtain the document that you need to apostille. This may be a birth certificate, marriage certificate, or educational certificate.
The document should be an original or a certified copy. It should also include any necessary seals or signatures.
Step 3: Get The Document Certified
The third step is to get the document certified by a solicitor or notary public. This is to confirm that the document is genuine and has not been altered.
The solicitor or notary public will need to sign and date the document, and add their seal or stamp.
It is important to note that the FCO will not apostille a document that has not been certified by a solicitor or notary public.
Step 4: Send The Document To The FCO
The fourth and final step is to send the document to the FCO for apostille. You can do this by post or in person.
If you are sending the document by post, you will need to include a cover letter stating your name, contact details, and the document that you are sending. You will also need to include a cheque or postal order for the apostille fee.
The FCO will usually process the document within 1-2 working days. You can also pay for a same-day service if you need the apostille urgently.
Conclusion
Getting an apostille in the UK is a simple process, but it is important to ensure that your documents are genuine and have been certified by a solicitor or notary public. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can obtain an apostille for your public documents and use them overseas.