FCDO Attestations
Attestation by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) is the process in which UK-issued official documents are legally certified so that they can be accepted in foreign jurisdictions. When you want to use a UK birth certificate, degree, power of attorney or commercial document abroad, many authorities will require that the document be legalised by the FCDO (i.e., bear an apostille or equivalent) before further embassy or consular verification is carried out.
FCDO Attestations Process
The process begins by ensuring that the document was issued by an eligible authority (such as a court, public registry, government department, or certified by a UK notary/solicitor) — for UK documents this is a prerequisite. Next, you apply to the FCDO Legalisation Office (paper-based or e-Apostille via online submission). Once approved, the apostille certificate is attached to or accompanies the document, and then the document may need embassy attestation in the destination country depending on that country’s rules.
FCDO Attestations Eligibility & Key Considerations
Only documents issued in the UK or certified by UK public officials are eligible for direct FCDO attestation. Documents from other countries must often follow their own route.
Some documents require notarisation or solicitor certification before FCDO will process them (e.g., powers of attorney, company documents).
If the destination country is not a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, further legalisation beyond the apostille may be required, such as consular authentication.
Laminated documents, documents in bundles or improperly prepared may be rejected; always check the recipient’s country requirements.
FCDO Attestations Fees & Turnaround
Fees for the FCDO legalisation service were updated from 1 January 2024; for example, the standard UK service fee is £45 for paper-based and £35 for an e-Apostille. The timeframe can vary — some premium service providers report 1–2 working days for processing, though official standard processing may take longer depending on workload.
Why Choose Us
Our team specialises in guiding clients through the FCDO attestation process with precision and transparency. From verifying eligibility, handling notarisation requirements, submitting to the FCDO, to arranging any subsequent embassy or consulate steps, we manage everything under one roof. We provide real-time tracking, clear pricing, and ensure your documents are ready for international use without avoidable delays or risk of rejection.
FAQs
What Does “FCDO Attestations” Mean For My UK Document?
It means the UK document is legalised by the FCDO (via apostille) so it can be accepted in another country under the Hague Convention or pursuant to their legalisation rules.
Do I Need FCDO Attestations If The Document Was Issued Outside The UK?
Typically no — if the document is from outside the UK, you must follow that country’s legalisation route; the FCDO only legalises UK-issued documents.
How Long Does The FCDO Attestations Process Take?
Processing time varies. Some premium services complete within 1–2 working days; standard official processing may take several working days depending on document type and workload.
What Happens After My Document Receives FCDO Attestations?
You may then need to submit it to the destination country’s embassy or consulate for further attestation if required, or translate it if language rules apply.
Does The FCDO Attestations Mean My Documents Are Valid Forever Abroad?
While the apostille affixed by the FCDO does not expire, the destination country may impose its own validity rules (e.g., certificate age, translation, recent date). Always check the specific requirements.
Useful Links
Other Useful Resources
Apostille Convention Status Table