How long a Ukrainian police certificate takes from the UK

What an apostille is

An apostille is a stamped official certificate from the FCDO Legalisation Office. The office checks the seal or signature on the document against its records and attaches the apostille when they match.

When a document can be legalised

A document can be legalised when a UK public official issued it or when such an official has certified it — for example a notary or a solicitor. Examples include a contract, a power of attorney and a qualification certificate copy that a solicitor has certified.

Two types of apostille

There are two types, and both types are requested through an online application.

• e-Apostille: the electronic version, a PDF signed electronically by a notary or solicitor in the UK.
• Paper-based apostille: the document is posted, or it is handed in in person by a registered business.

Where an e-Apostille is not available

An e-Apostille is not available for:

• birth, death, marriage and civil partnership certificates, adoption certificates, and other documents issued by the General Register Office;
• disclosure certificates (Scotland and Northern Ireland);
• DBS certificates (England and Wales);
• ACRO police certificates (England and Wales);
• fingerprint certificates.

Fees per document

Only paper-based apostilles involve courier charges. If legalisation is not possible, the fee is not refunded.

How long each service takes

What the receiving authority accepts

Some receiving authorities want a paper-based apostille even where an e-Apostille exists, so check this before applying.