Process steps
- Review the document and the relevant embassy requirements
- Prepare notarisation if needed
- Submit and follow up at the embassy/consulate in London
- Collect and notify you when ready
Document services
Consular legalisation in London | Non-Hague countries
Embassy or consulate legalisation for countries not party to the Hague Convention — we deal with embassies in London and follow through until collection.
Practical tip
Check the receiving body’s requirements before applying — some countries accept Apostille only; others need a full chain of notarisation, consular legalisation and translation.
Frequently asked questions
When do I need consular legalisation instead of an apostille?
If the target country is not a signatory to the Hague apostille convention, you will usually need consular legalisation via that country's embassy/consulate in London after the British notarisation. An apostille is enough for more than 120 signatory countries. The process is longer and more expensive than a standard apostille. Check the requirements of the receiving body before applying. The /consular-legalisation and /legalisation pages explain the options; contact us for a quote depending on the country and document.
What is a UK apostille and how do I get one?
An apostille is a certificate from the British Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) that confirms the authenticity of the signature/seal of an official British document for use in a country that is a signatory to the Hague Convention. For the company's certificate of incorporation or Companies House documents, the appropriate copy is prepared and then submitted to the apostille service (post, in-person delivery, same-day, or e-Apostille depending on the type of document). The time is from a day to several days depending on the option. Eteform coordinates through partners in London — request a quote via /contact or WhatsApp with the type of document and the target country.
What is the difference between an apostille and notarisation (by a notary)?
Notarisation by a Notary Public confirms the signatory's identity or the authenticity of a copy before a British notary. An apostille is a subsequent step from the FCDO that recognises that notarisation or the official document for international use. Some documents need both in sequence; certain government documents may accept an apostille directly. For countries not signatory to the Hague Convention, consular legalisation follows the notarisation. See /legalisation and /apostille depending on your case.
المزيد في الأسئلة الشائعة.
