Can Someone Else Get an Apostille for me?

Apostille Online — 30 September 2026

You can authorise someone else to obtain an apostille in the UK by providing a signed letter of authorisation. If they submit the documents in person, they’ll also need valid photo ID.

If you need an apostille for a UK document but cannot submit it yourself, you may wonder whether someone else can handle the process for you. The answer is yes: the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) allows individuals to authorise a third party to obtain an apostille on their behalf. This is particularly useful if you are overseas, relocating, or simply unable to attend the Legalisation Office in person.

What Is an Apostille and Why Might You Need One?

An apostille is an official certificate issued by the FCDO Legalisation Office that authenticates the origin of a UK public document so it can be accepted in countries that are members of the 1961 Hague Apostille Convention. Common examples include birth certificates, marriage certificates, degree certificates, powers of attorney, and company documents.

For example, an employer sending an employee abroad may need an apostille on a degree certificate for visa processing, or a couple marrying in Italy may need apostilles on their UK birth and marriage certificates. If the destination country is not a Hague Convention member, additional embassy or consular legalisation may be required after the apostille.

Authorising Someone Else to Get Your Apostille

If you cannot submit your documents yourself, you can authorise a trusted person—such as a family member, solicitor, or professional apostille service—to act on your behalf. The FCDO accepts third‑party submissions, including those made by registered apostille agents.

To do this, you must provide a signed letter of authorisation confirming that you permit the named individual or service to submit and collect your documents.

Key Requirements for Authorisation

Signed Letter of Authorisation:
Should include your full name, the authorised person’s name, the documents being legalised, and a clear statement granting permission.
Valid Identification:
The authorised person must present valid photo ID (passport or driving licence) when submitting or collecting documents at the FCDO counter. (This requirement is standard practice for counter submissions; postal applications do not require in‑person ID.)

This arrangement is commonly used by graduates working abroad, expats, and professionals who cannot attend the Legalisation Office themselves.

How the Process Works with a Third Party

You prepare your documents and write a signed authorisation letter.
The authorised person submits the documents to the FCDO Legalisation Office—either in person or by post.
The FCDO processes the apostille, typically within 1–2 working days for counter service.
The authorised person collects the apostilled documents (for counter service) or receives them by courier/post.

There is no additional fee for using a third party; the standard FCDO apostille fee applies regardless of who submits the documents.

Additional Tips and Considerations

If you cannot print a physical letter, you may use a digital signature—though acceptance can vary. Contact the FCDO if unsure.
Always check whether your destination country requires embassy legalisation after the apostille. Some countries still require consular attestation.
UK police certificates (ACRO) and DBS certificates can also be apostilled and may be submitted by a third party.
Documents such as deed polls, partnership agreements, and powers of attorney can also be submitted by an authorised representative, provided they meet FCDO certification requirements.

Using a third party can save time and simplify the process, especially if you are overseas or unable to attend the Legalisation Office yourself. Just ensure you provide a clear authorisation letter and that your representative carries valid identification where required.

If you want to arrange for someone else to obtain an apostille on your behalf, you can start your application or request a personalised quote on our application page.