Brexit changed how British citizens legalise their documents abroad. Before, many papers were accepted automatically by EU countries. Now, that’s no longer the case for lots of documents. Whether you need an apostille for a visa, work permit, diploma, or certificate, it’s important to know the current rules. Legalisation steps vary depending on the country. Getting it right helps avoid problems with residency or travel.
Overview of the Pre-Brexit Legalisation Process
Before Brexit, legalising UK documents for the EU was easier. The UK was part of a system where many papers were recognised without extra hassle. Usually, a simple apostille from the UK government was enough. That apostille showed your document was genuine. It worked for visas, work permits, and residence permits across most EU countries. The process was quicker and cheaper because of this.
The Post-Brexit Effect on Document Legalisation
After Brexit, the rules changed a lot. The EU no longer automatically accepts UK documents. Now, an apostille alone might not be enough. British citizens often need extra certification from embassies or consulates. This adds steps, time, and sometimes cost. It’s important to check the latest rules before starting a visa or residence permit application.
Main Changes in Apostille Rules After Brexit
The biggest change is that apostilles don’t always cover everything now. They still confirm a document is real. But some EU countries want more proof. Usually, this means visiting a consulate or embassy for extra legalisation after the apostille. This affects birth certificates, diplomas, and work permits. What was once simple may now take longer and cost more.
- Removal of automatic recognition for some documents: Many EU countries stopped recognising UK documents automatically. That means an apostille may not be enough. Certificates or diplomas often need extra legalisation or official translation. This adds paperwork and can be confusing. For British citizens, it might slow down residency or visa applications.
- Additional embassy or consular attestation for specific EU states: Some EU countries want documents attested at their embassy or consulate after you get an apostille. This is common for Italy, Spain, and Denmark. The consulate checks the documents again to meet local rules. It’s an extra step, but helps their authorities recognise your papers. It also means more time and cost for British nationals.
- Impact on business, education, and personal documents: These changes affect lots of documents. Businesses sending contracts abroad may face delays. Students applying for visas or work permits must ensure their diplomas are certified. Even personal documents, like birth certificates needed for residence permits, may need extra steps. British citizens should plan ahead — legalisation takes more care and time now.
EU Countries That May Require More Than an Apostille
Not all EU countries treat UK apostilles the same now. Some still accept just an apostille. Others require extra steps, like consular legalisation or official translation. If you want to live or work in Europe, check your country’s rules. The process varies depending on where you go and your documents.
Italy
Italy is strict. Apostilles from the UK alone may not be enough. You often need legalisation at the Italian consulate in the UK. This applies to certificates, diplomas, and similar papers for visas or residency. Without this, Italian authorities might reject your documents.
Spain
Spain has similar rules. Most UK documents need both an apostille and consular legalisation for Spain. Applying for a Spanish visa or residency means your certificates and diplomas must be fully certified. Sometimes an official Spanish translation is needed too. British citizens should prepare for these extra steps.
Denmark
Denmark requires more than just an apostille. The Danish consulate often asks for extra legalisation after the apostille. This applies to documents like birth certificates or diplomas for visas, work permits, or residency. British nationals should expect a longer process with more paperwork.
Contact Us for Secure Apostille and Legalisation Process
Need help legalising your UK documents after Brexit? We offer a reliable apostille service. We guide you through each step — from certifying your documents to arranging any embassy or consulate legalisation. We keep everything up-to-date and simple so your visa application, residency, or work permit goes smoothly. Contact us to get started.
FAQs
Has Brexit increased the cost of getting documents legalised?
Yes. More documents need extra legalisation beyond the apostille now. That means extra fees for consulate certification, translations, and longer processing times. Costs vary depending on the country and document type.
Which UK authority issues Apostilles after Brexit?
The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) still issues apostilles. That part hasn’t changed. But some countries require additional legalisation by their consulates after you get the apostille.
How has Brexit affected UK businesses?
It’s made legalising documents harder for UK businesses working in the EU. More papers need extra consulate legalisation. This causes delays and extra costs that businesses must plan for when sending contracts or certificates abroad.
Can I still use an Apostille issued before Brexit in the EU?
Usually yes. Apostilles issued before Brexit remain valid. But some countries changed their recognition rules. You should check current requirements, as some documents may now need consular legalisation too.
Do non-EU countries treat UK Apostilles differently after Brexit?
No. Non-EU countries generally accept UK apostilles as before. Brexit mainly affects recognition within the EU.
