Translation

A Translation is a written version of a document converted from one language into another. Translations are commonly required when UK documents need to be submitted to foreign authorities, embassies, courts, universities, employers, or government departments abroad.

Our next working day UK apostille service provides official legalisation of translations through the FCDO apostille UK process, ensuring full international recognition where required.

Can I legalise a translation?

Yes, translations can be legalised.

Acceptable formats for legalisation

The FCDO accepts translations in the following formats:

• Original certified translation
• Translation signed and stamped by a professional translator or translation agency
• Translation certified by a UK solicitor or notary public
• Translation attached to the original or certified copy of the source document

Solicitor or notary certification required

Yes. Translations usually require certification by a UK solicitor or notary public before apostille.

Notary certification may also be required depending on the destination country or receiving authority.

Original documents required

Original certified translations or properly certified copies are recommended for apostille processing.

The source document may also need to be provided or legalised depending on the destination country’s requirements.

Important notes

• The translation must be accurate, complete, and fully legible
• Translator or agency details should be clearly visible
• Certification must be completed in the UK
• Some countries require notarisation before apostille
• The original document may also need a separate apostille

Common uses

• Visa and immigration applications
• Marriage, birth, death, and civil status procedures abroad
• Overseas education and employment applications
• Foreign court or legal proceedings
• Embassy and government submissions

Embassy attestation required

Yes, for non-Hague Convention countries (e.g. UAE, Qatar, Kuwait), embassy attestation is required after the FCDO apostille UK process.

To qualify for our premium 1 day apostille service, documents must be received before 12:30 pm at our Milton Keynes office.

We offer fast apostille processing with next working day submission to the FCDO, ensuring a quick and efficient turnaround.

Please note that if solicitor certification is required, an additional working day will be added to the processing time.