Document Certification UK - Solicitor & Notary

Document certification services

Certification is a key step in the legalisation process, where a UK solicitor, Notary Public, or other authorised professional confirms that a document is authentic. This may involve certifying an original document or confirming that a copy is a true and accurate representation of the original.

For certification to be accepted for Apostille or legalisation, it must include the certifier’s signature, name, professional capacity, and date, and the certifier must be recognised by the UK authorities so their signature can be verified.

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Solicitor certification

Solicitor certification involves a UK-qualified solicitor confirming the authenticity of a document. This may be done by certifying the original document or by confirming that a copy is a true and accurate copy of the original.
For Apostille and legalisation purposes, the certification must include the solicitor’s signature, full name, professional title, and date, and the solicitor must be recognised by the UK authorities so the signature can be verified.

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Notary certification

Notary certification is carried out by a UK Notary Public and is often required for documents intended for use abroad. The notary formally verifies the authenticity of the document, either as an original or as a certified copy.
The notarial certification must include the notary’s signature, name, official capacity, and date, and the notary must be eligible for FCDO verification.

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Documents that require certification

Certain documents must be certified by a UK solicitor or Notary Public before they can be submitted for Apostille or legalisation.
Certification allows the FCDO to verify the signature and confirm the document’s authenticity, ensuring it meets UK legalisation standards for international use.

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When certification or notarisation Is required before an apostille

In certain situations, documents must be certified or notarised before an Apostille can be issued. This ensures the document meets UK FCDO legalisation requirements and can be accepted for international use.

Certified Copies of Original Documents
- If you are submitting a copy of an original document, such as a passport, utility bill, or bank statement, it will usually need to be certified by a UK solicitor or Notary Public before Apostille.

Private and Legal Documents
- Documents such as powers of attorney, affidavits, statutory declarations, and formal letters typically require notarisation by a UK Notary Public prior to Apostille.

Documents Not Issued by a UK Public Authority
- Documents that were not issued by a UK government body or public authority often require solicitor certification or notarisation to confirm their authenticity before Apostille can be applied.

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Apostille document and envelope from The Legalisation Office on a light background

When certification or notarisation Is usually NOT required

Official Documents Issued by UK Authorities

Documents issued directly by UK public bodies can often be apostilled without additional preparation, as long as they contain the appropriate original signature or official seal.

Common examples include:

Birth, marriage, and death certificates issued by the General Register Office (GRO)
Court-issued documents
HMRC letters and tax documents
Companies House documents

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Why choose Oracle

Specialist expertise

Proven experience in UK apostille, certification and document legalisation procedures.
End-to-end support

From document review to final delivery — we manage the full process on your behalf.
Accuracy & compliance

All documents are handled in line with UK regulations and international standards.
Time-efficient service

Streamlined procedures to minimise delays wherever possible.
Trusted since 2009

Established consultancy with a strong reputation for professionalism and discretion.
Individual & corporate clients

Supporting private individuals, companies and international organisations.