
What Is an Apostille in the UK and Why Do You Need It?
An apostille in the UK certifies the authenticity of the signature, a seal, or a stamp
The UAE sits outside the Hague Convention, so an FCDO apostille on its own is not accepted. This guide sets out the whole route — certification, apostille, then UAE attestation and MOFA — with the 10 to 12 working day timeline most orders follow.
The route at a glance
1 Certification, where required 2 FCDO apostille 3 UAE embassy attestation 4 MOFA and secure return
An apostille in the UK certifies the authenticity of the signature, a seal, or a stamp

Have you recently decided to change your name? Getting a deed poll is the first step.

Do you plan to marry overseas? You will likely need to ensure your documents are prepared

You might need to use your UK divorce documents in another country. To do this, you

If you are planning to move, work, or handle legal matters abroad, you might face a

An apostille in the UK certifies the authenticity of the signature, a seal, or a stamp

Have you recently decided to change your name? Getting a deed poll is the first step.

Do you plan to marry overseas? You will likely need to ensure your documents are prepared

You might need to use your UK divorce documents in another country. To do this, you

If you are planning to move, work, or handle legal matters abroad, you might face a
Timing depends on which document you need and what service you use. Some documents qualify for next-day turnaround. Others need certification or notarisation first, which adds time. Always check the route before you send your originals.
UAE attestation costs vary by document and by the route it takes. Legalisation4You's current prices start at £160 for embassy-only work and £225 for certification, apostille and embassy attestation together. Commercial documents cost more.
A plain photocopy can't be apostilled on its own. If a copy is accepted, a solicitor or notary usually needs to certify it first. This depends on the document, so check before you get a copy made.
A power of attorney for property abroad often needs witnessing, notarisation, certification and an apostille before you can actually use it. The exact steps will vary according to the country and who is to receive the document. Check the requirements first.
Countries which are parties to the Hague Apostille Convention generally accept an apostille in lieu of embassy legalization. However, the requirements differ depending on the document and its destination so always check whether you need certification, translation or registration too.
Embassy timeframes and document rules change without notice. We send a short update when something material changes.
Send us your document type and destination country. We’ll confirm the route, cost and timeframe before anything is processed, so you know exactly what to expect.