Question 1

What is an e-Apostille and how is it different?

Accepted Answer

An e-Apostille is an electronic version of the apostille certificate. Instead of a paper certificate attached to a physical document, the FCDO issues a signed PDF that is cryptographically linked to your electronic document, so its authenticity can be checked online.

Question 2

Which documents are eligible for an e-Apostille?

Accepted Answer

It suits documents that exist as verifiable electronic files — for example digitally-signed PDFs, certain solicitor-certified electronic documents and some electronically-issued certificates. If you're not sure whether yours qualifies, ask us and we'll confirm before you pay.

Question 3

Do I need to post anything?

Accepted Answer

No. The whole process is digital — you upload your file, we arrange the apostille, and we email you the finished PDF. There is no original to send and nothing is returned by post.

Question 4

How do I prove the e-Apostille is genuine?

Accepted Answer

The FCDO provides an online verification route for electronic apostilles, and the PDF carries a digital signature. Whoever you send it to can confirm it is authentic without handling a paper document.

Question 5

Will the receiving country accept a digital apostille?

Accepted Answer

Most Hague Convention countries accept e-Apostilles, but a few still ask for a traditional paper apostille. If your destination requires paper, choose our standard apostille service instead — we're happy to advise which you need.

e-Apostille — Digital Legalisation, Delivered by Email