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HLD Services

A practical introduction

Understanding document legalisation.

Legalisation, apostilles and attestation are connected ways of preparing a document for official use in another country. The route depends on the document, where it came from, where it is going and what the recipient requires.

The terminology

Different names, connected steps.

01

Legalisation

The broad process of confirming the official origin of a document for use abroad.

02

Apostille

A particular certificate used under the Hague Apostille Convention.

03

Attestation

A term often used for embassy, consular or destination-country checks.

How routes are shaped

Five details guide the review.

There is no single term used consistently in every country. HLD starts with the information below and reviews the administrative service it may be able to offer.

  1. 01Where was the document issued?
  2. 02Where will it be used?
  3. 03What type of document is it?
  4. 04Who will receive it?
  5. 05Does it need certification or translation first?

Before an international move

Why prepare documents before relocating?

A visa can be only one part of a relocation. Employers, immigration providers, universities, professional regulators and family-residence processes may also request documents. It can be easier to obtain replacements, signatures and certifications while you still have access to the issuing country.

Education

Degrees and professional qualifications

Family

Birth and marriage certificates

Background

Police or criminal record certificates

Employment

Employment and company documents

Important limitations

Requirements can change, and the receiving authority decides what it will accept. HLD coordinates the administrative process stated in an accepted quotation. It does not issue apostilles or visas, replace the receiving authority, provide legal advice or guarantee acceptance.

Document legalisation FAQs

Answers before you start.

Understanding the process

Documents and preparation

Timing, acceptance and limitations

Official references

Check the current official requirement.

This guide gives general background. For UK-issued documents, read the UK Legalisation Office guidance. For the international Apostille Convention, consult the Hague Conference Apostille Section. The receiving authority's current instructions remain decisive.

Not sure which route applies?

Tell us where the document was issued, where it will be used and who requested it.

Start a legalisation request