An apostille is a certificate issued by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) to confirm the authenticity of a document for international use. It’s often required for documents such as birth certificates, degrees, marriage certificates, or company papers when used abroad.
Standard Apostille Processing Times
For most applications, the FCDO’s standard apostille service can take up to 10 working days from the date they receive your documents. This timeline may vary depending on demand, seasonal peaks, or errors in your paperwork.
If you apply by post without using a registered service provider, you should also factor in delivery times for both sending and receiving documents.
Premium and Same-Day Apostille Services
If you need your documents processed quickly, premium services are available. Some registered providers offer same-day or next-day apostille services. This usually involves submitting your documents in person or through a trusted courier.
While these options cost more, they are ideal if you need your paperwork urgently—for example, for an overseas job application, visa, or business transaction.
Factors That Affect Apostille Timelines
Several factors can delay the process if not handled correctly:
Incorrect documents – Only original or certified copies are accepted.
Missing signatures or stamps – Documents must be properly signed and sealed by the relevant authority.
High demand – During peak periods, such as before university terms or large migration waves, processing times may increase.
Delivery delays – Using standard post can add several days to the timeline.
To avoid setbacks, always double-check requirements before submitting your documents.
How to Speed Up the Process
To ensure your apostille is issued as quickly as possible:
Use a professional apostille service to minimise errors.
Prepare multiple documents together to save processing time.
Conclusion
So, how long does it take to get an apostille in the UK? On average, standard applications take up to 10 working days, while urgent services can provide an apostille within 24 hours. By preparing your documents correctly and choosing the right service, you can ensure a smooth and timely process.
FAQs
1. Can I get an apostille the same day in the UK? Yes, but only through premium services offered by registered providers.
2. How long does the standard FCDO apostille service take? Usually up to 10 working days, plus postal delivery time.
3. Do I need original documents for an apostille? Yes, you must submit originals or certified copies, not scans or photocopies.
4. Can I track my apostille application? If you use a professional service, tracking is often included. Postal applications to the FCDO do not usually include tracking.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Apostille? A Timeline for UK Documents
An apostille is a certificate issued by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) to confirm the authenticity of a document for international use. It’s often required for documents such as birth certificates, degrees, marriage certificates, or company papers when used abroad.
Standard Apostille Processing Times
For most applications, the FCDO’s standard apostille service can take up to 10 working days from the date they receive your documents. This timeline may vary depending on demand, seasonal peaks, or errors in your paperwork.
If you apply by post without using a registered service provider, you should also factor in delivery times for both sending and receiving documents.
Premium and Same-Day Apostille Services
If you need your documents processed quickly, premium services are available. Some registered providers offer same-day or next-day apostille services. This usually involves submitting your documents in person or through a trusted courier.
While these options cost more, they are ideal if you need your paperwork urgently—for example, for an overseas job application, visa, or business transaction.
Factors That Affect Apostille Timelines
Several factors can delay the process if not handled correctly:
Incorrect documents – Only original or certified copies are accepted.
Missing signatures or stamps – Documents must be properly signed and sealed by the relevant authority.
High demand – During peak periods, such as before university terms or large migration waves, processing times may increase.
Delivery delays – Using standard post can add several days to the timeline.
To avoid setbacks, always double-check requirements before submitting your documents.
How to Speed Up the Process
To ensure your apostille is issued as quickly as possible:
Use a professional apostille service to minimise errors.
Choose courier delivery instead of standard post.
Opt for premium or urgent services if time is critical.
Prepare multiple documents together to save processing time.
Conclusion
So, how long does it take to get an apostille in the UK? On average, standard applications take up to 10 working days, while urgent services can provide an apostille within 24 hours. By preparing your documents correctly and choosing the right service, you can ensure a smooth and timely process.
FAQs
1. Can I get an apostille the same day in the UK?
Yes, but only through premium services offered by registered providers.
2. How long does the standard FCDO apostille service take?
Usually up to 10 working days, plus postal delivery time.
3. Do I need original documents for an apostille?
Yes, you must submit originals or certified copies, not scans or photocopies.
4. Can I track my apostille application?
If you use a professional service, tracking is often included. Postal applications to the FCDO do not usually include tracking.
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