At 2e Apostille, we understand that urgent situations arise where even a 24-48 hour turnaround isn’t fast enough. For these critical moments, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) offers a Same-Day Apostille Service for documents that meet certain eligibility criteria.

As of July 2025, the FCDO has expanded these criteria, making it possible for more individuals and businesses to access urgent legalisation. This is great news for clients who previously might not have qualified but can now rely on this service for time-sensitive needs.

Important Notice: Inquire Before 4:00 PM a day before (Preferably Sooner)

To use the FCDO’s Same-Day Apostille Service, we must obtain prior authorisation from the FCDO on your behalf. This authorisation process requires us to submit your request to the FCDO by 4:00 PM (16:00) at the latest on the working day before you need the service.

However, we strongly advise clients to inquire with us as early in the day as possible, well before the 4:00 PM cut-off. Early inquiries allow our team to assess your situation, prepare the necessary documents, and increase the likelihood of securing FCDO approval in time.

Same-day submissions without prior approval cannot be processed.

Is Your Document Eligible?

First, it’s important to determine if your document qualifies for urgent legalisation. The FCDO prioritises certain types of time-sensitive documents, including:

• Documents related to time-sensitive repatriation.
  
  
• Time-limited documents concerning the transport of animals.
  
  
• Documents providing evidence for the welfare of a child or vulnerable adult.
  
  
• Commercially urgent documents required within 48 hours, such as those for insolvency searches or corporate transactions, or short-notice private client documents.
  
  
• Visa, asylum, or travel documents where the travel date is within 48 hours.
  
  

The Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you believe your situation qualifies, here’s how 2e Apostille ensures a smooth process:

1.    Consultation & Eligibility Check – We quickly assess if your document meets FCDO’s urgent criteria.

2.    Urgency Statement Preparation – Our team assists you in drafting the necessary urgency explanation.

3.    Document Verification – We ensure your document’s signature is pre-approved in the FCDO’s system.

4.    Submission & Deadline Handling – We coordinate your request, ensuring it’s submitted on time

5.    Drop-off & Same-Day Collection – We manage the logistics of delivering and collecting your documents from the Foreign Office

Why 2e Apostille?

• Specialists in Same-Day Apostille Processing

• Proven Track Record with Urgent FCDO Cases

• End-to-End Support (Documents, Evidence, Application)

• Reliable and Transparent Service

If you have an urgent document that can’t wait, contact 2e Apostille today. We’ll guide you
through the FCDO’s Same-Day Service and ensure your legalisation is handled without delays.
Call us at 020 3920 7806
Email: admin@2eapostille.co.uk