Pet export document (DEFRA) apostille – UK legalisation service
Fast, secure apostille service for your pet export document (DEFRA)
We provide fast apostille and legalisation services for DEFRA pet export documents, including priority FCDO apostille UK processing and secure tracked delivery. This service is commonly required for international pet travel, overseas relocation and foreign import requirements.
What is a pet export document (DEFRA)?
A pet export document issued by DEFRA is an official document relating to the international movement of pets from the United Kingdom. These documents may include export health certificates, veterinary approvals and official animal travel documentation.
Why you may need an apostille
You may require an apostille for:
- International pet relocation
- Overseas travel with pets
- Foreign animal import requirements
- Residency or relocation abroad
- International veterinary or quarantine procedures
An apostille ensures your DEFRA pet export document is legally recognised in Hague Apostille Convention countries.
Can I legalise a pet export document?
Yes — UK DEFRA pet export documents can be legalised for international use, provided they meet the required format and certification standards.
Apostille requirements
- Original DEFRA document required
- Documents must be issued or certified by DEFRA or an authorised UK authority
- Certain documents may require solicitor or notary certification before apostille
Acceptable formats for legalisation
✔ Original DEFRA pet export documents
✔ Official export health certificates
✔ Documents certified by a UK solicitor or Notary Public where required
❌ Uncertified photocopies, scans or unofficial printouts are not accepted
Embassy attestation (if required)
If your destination country is not part of the Hague Convention, additional embassy attestation may be required after the FCDO apostille UK process.
We can arrange:
- Embassy attestation
- Certified translations
- PDF scanning
Our apostille service includes
- Pre-submission document checks
- Priority FCDO apostille UK submission
- Secure tracked return delivery
- Optional services: embassy attestation, translation and scanning
Processing time
Priority service:
Next working day submission to the FCDO if documents are received before 12:30 pm at our Milton Keynes office.
Most clients receive their apostilled documents within 1–2 working days after FCDO processing.