If you’ve been asked to have your documents certified and apostilled, you might be wondering what these terms actually mean — and why they’re so important. Whether you’re applying for a visa, getting married abroad, studying overseas, or handling legal or business matters outside the UK, understanding this process will save you time and prevent delays.
What does “Certified” mean?
When a document is certified, it means a solicitor or notary public has confirmed that the copy is a true and accurate representation of the original. Certification helps prove that your documents are genuine and have not been altered.
Common documents that require certification include:
-
Passports and ID cards
-
Birth, marriage, and death certificates
-
Academic qualifications and transcripts
-
Company documents (such as Certificates of Incorporation)
Certification is often the first step before legalisation or Apostille stamping can take place.
What does “Apostilled” mean?
An Apostille is an official certificate issued by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) confirming that the signature, seal, or stamp on a document is authentic. This process is known as Apostille legalisation and allows your UK documents to be recognised in countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention.
Once your document has been apostilled, it can be used abroad without any further authentication.
Certified vs Apostilled – what’s the difference?
The certification is done by a solicitor or notary in the UK, while the Apostille is issued by the FCDO.
-
Certification confirms the authenticity of the document or copy.
-
Apostille confirms the authenticity of the official signature or stamp.
In most cases, you’ll need both steps to ensure your documents are valid overseas.
Why it matters
Failing to have your documents properly certified or apostilled can result in rejection by foreign authorities, causing unnecessary delays and extra costs. Ensuring your paperwork is correctly prepared helps guarantee smooth international recognition.
How The Hague Apostille can help
At The Hague Apostille, we manage the entire process for you — from solicitor certification and notary services to Apostille legalisation and document translation. Our team ensures every document meets the required standards for acceptance abroad, saving you time and effort.
Whether you need an Apostille for personal, academic, or corporate documents, we make the process simple, secure, and stress-free. Order now!