Get your paperwork right the first time

An apostille is a single certificate used between countries that have signed the Hague Apostille Convention. Where that doesn’t apply, documents usually go through a chain of attestation, often the issuing ministry, the embassy, and then the foreign ministry of the country where you’ll use it. Which one you need depends on where the document was issued and where it’s going. We check this for each document.

Many authorities want certain documents, like single-status certificates, to be recently issued, sometimes within a few months. Birth certificates may also need to be a recent copy. The exact limit depends on the country and the authority. We note the validity of each document on your timeline so nothing expires before your appointment.

It depends on your nationality. Some people get it from their embassy, some from a registry office at home, and some countries don’t issue one at all, in which case another document or a sworn statement may be accepted. We tell you which option applies to you and how to request it.

Often the authority wants translations by a translator it recognises, and that can mean a local legal translator. Sometimes a translation done abroad is fine if it’s legalised. It depends on where you’re marrying and the document. We’ll tell you before you pay for a translation that might be refused.

It varies widely. A document from a country with fast online services might take a week or two, while another needing several embassy stamps can take much longer. Postal delays and public holidays add time too. We give you a realistic estimate for your documents and suggest starting as early as possible.

It can be. Authorities compare documents closely, and differences in spelling, middle names or dates can cause a rejection. There’s usually a fix, such as a supporting document or an affidavit. Tell us early and we’ll work out what your case needs.