What is Document Attestation?
Document attestation in the UK is the process of verifying the authenticity of a document to be used for legal or official purposes abroad. This process ensures that your documents, whether personal or commercial, are recognized and accepted by foreign governments or institutions. Attestation is crucial for various reasons, including immigration, employment, education, and business dealings overseas.
Why is Document Attestation Important?
Online apostille services gives your documents legal validity in another country. Without this, they might be rejected or deemed invalid for official purposes like applying for a visa, securing a job, or registering a business. Attestation helps prove that your documents are authentic and have been issued by the appropriate authorities.
Types of Documents That Need Attestation
Different types of documents may require attestation, depending on the purpose for which they are being used. The most common categories include:
- Educational Documents: Degree certificates, diplomas, and transcripts for studying or working abroad.
- Personal Documents: Birth certificates, marriage certificates, and police clearance certificates for immigration or personal identification.
- Commercial Documents: Power of attorney, business contracts, and certificates of incorporation for international trade and business transactions.
Steps Involved in Document Attestation in the UK
The process of document attestation in the UK generally involves the following steps:
- Notarization: Your document must first be notarized by a public notary in the UK. This verifies that the document is genuine and legally valid.
- Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Attestation: After notarization, the document is sent to the FCDO for further verification. They will apply an official stamp or certificate confirming the authenticity of the notary’s signature.
- Embassy or Consulate Attestation: Once the FCDO has attested the document, it can then be submitted to the relevant embassy or consulate for the final stage of attestation. This step is necessary if the document is to be used in a country that requires embassy attestation.
Difference Between Attestation and Apostille
In the UK, an Apostille is a simplified form of document legalization used for countries that are part of the Hague Convention. It involves adding an official certificate to your document, making it valid in other member countries. Attestation, however, is used for countries that are not part of the Hague Convention, and often requires embassy certification in addition to FCDO attestation.
How to Get Your Document Attested in the UK
To obtain document attestation in the UK, follow these steps:
- Prepare the Required Documents: Ensure that your documents are complete and in the correct format. Originals are usually required for attestation.
- Visit a Notary Public: Have your documents notarized by a certified notary in the UK.
- Submit to FCDO: After notarization, submit your documents to the FCDO for attestation. You can do this via a legal services agency or directly through the FCDO’s postal service.
- Embassy Attestation: For documents intended for use in countries outside the Hague Convention, you will need to submit them to the relevant embassy for final certification.
Cost of Document Attestation in the UK
The cost of document attestation in the UK depends on several factors, including the type of document, the number of documents, and whether embassy attestation is required. On average:
- Notarization fees: £50 to £150 per document
- FCDO attestation: Around £30 per document
- Embassy attestation: Varies depending on the embassy but typically ranges between £50 and £100 per document.