Understanding Document Attestation in the UK

Document attestation or legalisation is required for public documents originating in the UK if another country has required for such a validation. The process may differ according to what country the attestation is required for.

The Hague Convention

If the country that you are aiming for is a part of the Hague Convention, they will only require an Apostille stamp for document attestation. Otherwise, the legalisation process becomes a bit longer.

How to Get Document Attestation in the UK?

The legislation office in the UK will get the document attestation completed. A legalisation professional will check the document you have submitted and will also validate if the seal, stamp, or signature on the document is authentic.

Once the professional is satisfied, they will add a stamped official certificate. This is known as the Apostille.  Remember that the legislation office will only entrain public documents that have origins in the UK. A document originating from any other country will have to be attested in that country.

Requirements for Document Attestation in the UK

Here is what you need for document attestation in the UK:

• The set of documents that need to be attested. This may differ depending on what is your reason for going to another country and which country you have chosen. It is recommended that you confirm what is required through official websites before you submit anything for attestation
• Make sure you have a working credit or debit card to pay for the document attestation services
• Give an appropriate and correct address for having your attested documents to be returned at

Hiring Professional Services

If you think you can’t manage the process of document attestation on your own, you have the option of hiring professional services. These are third-party services and are not directly responsible for the authentication of the documents. They only provide their expertise in the field to get you easy access to public offices that manage the actual legalisation. Professionals are aware of the intricacies of the system and can navigate more easily through it than an average citizen. Many people prefer hiring these Apostille services to save time.

However, you have to be careful about choosing the right services. Check out reviews and check their basic knowledge. Otherwise, you will only end up delaying the process even more and waste money too.

Attestation for Electronic Documents

Due to use of advanced technologies for many fields of life, electronic documents have become common. You don’t have to worry because these can be attested as well. A printed copy of a PDF or other document can be attested if it features the original ink seal or signature of the issuing individual or organisation. Also, it must have been certified by a notary public UK or a solicitor.

Document attestation in the UK is not an incredibly difficult process. Proper understanding and knowledge of the process and legislation office can help you manage on your own. Otherwise, you can always hire the Apostille services.