When documents need to be used in another country, they often need extra checks and stamps to prove they’re real. Embassy and consular attestation is that process. This is important for those moving abroad, doing business overseas, or needing their papers recognised in a different country. At Legalisation4You (L4U), we help make this process simple and fast. With over 20 years of experience and special links to UK authorities and foreign missions, we get documents ready for almost any country worldwide.
01
Certification
Verifies the document is genuine
02
Apostille
Confirms UK validity for international use
03
Embassy Legalisation
Final stamp from the embassy for use abroad
We keep clients regularly updated at every step, so they always know exactly what’s happening and when.
No Surprises
No Chasing
Just Clear Updates.
Apostille Stamp and Notary Certificate
The apostille stamp is a special certificate that shows a UK document has been checked by the FCDO. For many countries, this is enough, but some will need more steps. That’s where embassy attestation comes in.
A notary certificate is used when documents need a legal witness before they start the attestation process. Notaries make sure the signature is real and the person signing is who they say they are. Both the apostille and notary certificate help prove the document is genuine, but embassy attestation goes one step further for selected countries.
What Is Embassy and Consular Attestation
Embassy and consular attestation mean making a UK document valid for use in another country. First, a local authority or a notary checks the document’s signature. Next, it often goes to the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) for their stamp. Finally, the embassy or consulate of the country where you want to use the document adds their own stamp. Each step checks that the last stamp or signature is real.
Why is this done? Foreign governments want to make sure your certificates, degrees or business papers are genuine before they’re accepted. Countries that aren’t part of the Hague Convention usually make embassy attestation a must. For those, you can’t just get an apostille; the extra embassy validation is needed.
Why Do You Need Document Attestation for Overseas Use
If you’re a British national and want to live, work, or study abroad, many countries will not accept your UK documents without proper legalisation or attestation. Employers, schools, banks, and even courts may ask for this proof to avoid fraud.
Are you planning to get married, apply for a visa, start a new job, or open a bank account abroad? If yes, you’ll likely be asked for these steps. Attestation builds trust in your paperwork and saves time and hassle down the track if officials question authenticity.
Embassy Attestation Services by Country
Not every country follows the same rules for attestation. While some need just the apostille, others want full embassy attestation. Middle Eastern and many Asian countries usually need embassy stamps in addition to FCDO legalisation.
At Legalisation4You, we help with attestation for countries such as the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, China, Kuwait, Jordan, Egypt, Vietnam, Thailand and more. Each embassy has its own rules and required documents. We keep up to date so your process doesn’t hit delays. Need guidance for a specific country? We can walk you through each step.
Types of Documents We Attest
We handle a wide range of document types. Both personal and business documents can require attestation for overseas use. Officials may ask for certified and attested copies to prove their legitimacy.
Our team knows how to process personal certificates, work-related papers, academic records, contracts, and all sorts of business files. Whether you’re moving, working, or trading abroad, we ensure your paperwork meets international standards.
Legend:
= Solicitor Certification
= Notarisation Required
= Need the original
Government-Issued
Birth Certificate
Marriage Certificate
Death Certificate
ACRO Police Certificate
Criminal Record Check
DBS Certificate
Certificate of Naturalisation
Certificate of Impediment
Civil Partnership Certificate
HMRC Letter
Tax Certificate
Court-Issued Document
Immunisation Record
Power of Attorney (Personal)
Affidavit / Statutory Declaration
Parental Consent Letter
Financial Guarantee / Sponsorship
Letter of Authorisation
Invitation Letter
No Objection Certificate (NOC)
Medical Consent Form
Declaration for Property/Inherit.
Adoption Declaration / Agreement
Children Consent Forms
Other
Academic
Bachelor’s Degree Certificate
Master’s Degree Certificate
Degree Transcript
School Certificate
University Letter
Enrolment Letter
Degree Transcript
Reference Letter
Diploma Supplement
Degree Transcript
Results Statement / Transcript
Other
Business & Corporate
Certificate of Incorporation
Articles of Association
Certificate of Incumbency
Certificate of Free Sale
Companies House Documents
Board Minutes
Ben2 Form
Business Letters
Commercial Invoices
Authorised Representative Letters
Memorandum & Articles of Association
Shareholder Agreements
Trade Licences
ISO Certificates
CE Declarations
Power of Attorney (Corporate)
Business Authorisation Letter
Company Board Resolution
Other
Personal Documents
Personal documents need attestation for things like moving abroad, getting married, or enrolling in school overseas. They must show genuine signatures and proper stamps so they’re recognised in other countries.
These might include birth and marriage certificates, medical records, police clearance certificates, or even proof of address. Each type has its own process. If you’re unsure, our team is ready to help clarify the requirements and save your time.
Commercial Documents
Commercial documents allow businesses to operate, sign contracts, or ship goods abroad. For international trade or business expansion, embassy attestation keeps everything legal.
We handle company registration certificates, export documents, and all legal files needed for cross-border activities. Businesses trust us to process their paperwork quickly and correctly.
Legal Documents
Legal documents cover a range of important matters such as court orders, family matters, and rights to act for someone else. These always need careful checking and attestation.
If your legal papers need to cross borders, we step in to ensure they are recognised and accepted without delay. We work with you at each stage, guiding you so none of the legal requirements are overlooked.
Our Embassy Attestation Process Step by Step
We make your attestation easy. First, we review your documents and confirm what’s needed. Then, we get solicitor or notary certifications ready.
After that, we send documents to the FCDO for the apostille stamp. Once this is done, we handle the embassy or consular attestation. We keep you updated at every stage, and our process helps avoid errors and delays. We can also arrange for your documents to be delivered right to your door.
Fast & Reliable Consular Legalisation with Nationwide Coverage
Legalisation4You offers full coverage across the UK and beyond. We support urgent cases and help clients across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Our service is built on experience, speed, and trusted embassy connections.
Even for countries with very strict rules, you can rely on us for fast processing. We partner with all types of clients, from individuals to big companies, ensuring everyone gets the same professional attention.
Documents We Commonly Attest for the Middle East
The Middle East often has strict document requirements for jobs, moves, or business. Some of the most requested attested documents for this region include:
- UK-issued birth, marriage, and divorce certificates
- Academic degrees and university transcripts
- Police clearance certificates (PCC) for employment visas
- Medical certificates and health reports
- Power of attorney documents for business or personal use
- Commercial invoices and export documentation
- Certificates of incorporation and company registration
- Memorandum and articles of association (MOA/AOA)
- Board resolutions and shareholder agreements
- Employment contracts and offer letters
- Tax residency and VAT certificates
- Notarised affidavits and statutory declarations
- Adoption and guardianship papers
- Driving licences for licence exchange or residency
- Financial statements for business setup or audits
- Legalised copies of passports and ID documents
We know exactly what’s needed for each Middle Eastern country, so your application goes smoothly.
Start Your Embassy Attestation Today – Request a Free Quote
If you need documents attested for use abroad, we’re here to help. We take away all the guesswork and give you clear answers, every step of the way. Want to know the cost or see how quickly we can help? Contact us today for a free, no-commitment quote. We’re ready to make your document legalisation as easy as possible.
FAQs
Q
What is the difference between embassy and consular attestation?
A
The main difference is where the attestation happens and who does it. Embassy attestation is carried out at the embassy of the country where the document is going to be used. Consular attestation, on the other hand, can also be done at the consulate, a smaller office of an embassy, in another city. Both processes involve checking if signatures and stamps are real, but sometimes rules change by country and type of document. If in doubt, our experts can explain exactly what’s needed for your situation.
Q
Which countries require document attestation through their embassies?
A
Countries that are not part of the Hague Apostille Convention often request embassy attestation. These include many Middle Eastern, African, and Asian countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt, Kuwait, Vietnam, and Thailand. Requirements change, so always check which country you’re dealing with, or ask us to guide you. Some countries want both apostille and embassy stamps, while others only one.
Q
Do you offer attestation for personal and business documents?
A
Yes, we offer a full range of attestation services for both personal and business documents. If you need a marriage certificate, degree, business contract, or tax papers legalised, we take care of the solicitor or notary, FCDO, and embassy steps. Our team works with individuals, families, students, companies, and law firms to make sure all types of documents are accepted abroad.
Q
How long does the embassy attestation process take?
A
The timeline depends on the country and the document involved. Most attestation steps in the UK can be quick, but embassy processing time varies. It can take from a few days up to a couple of weeks, depending on country speed, public holidays, and document type. We always keep you updated on timing so you know what to expect and can plan ahead. Urgent requests are possible but may depend on embassy schedules.
Q
Can you handle urgent or same-day embassy attestations?
A
We can assist with urgent requests and, in some cases, same-day services if all documents are ready and the embassy allows it. Some countries offer faster processing, while others have strict routines. If you have a tight deadline, tell us right away. We’ll advise you if fast-tracking is possible for your case and work as quickly as embassy rules allow.
Q
Do you offer document collection and delivery?
A
Yes, we offer collection and delivery services for your documents. We can arrange door-to-door collection and secure delivery back to you when attestation is done. This service is available in most parts of the UK and can be arranged for international addresses as well. Our goal is to make the process as easy as possible and give peace of mind at every step.
Q
Are your services recognised by foreign embassies and consulates?
A
Absolutely. With official recognition and FCDO registration, our attestation and legalisation services are trusted by foreign embassies and consulates across the UK. We keep up links with embassy staff and are always up to date on their requirements. This means your attested documents will be accepted overseas, helping you avoid costly errors or rejections.
