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How to Notarise and Legalise Common UK Documents for International Use

In an increasingly interconnected world, your documents often need to be recognised abroad  for studies, work, business, or legal matters. Whether it’s a Power of Attorney, birth certificate, or university degree, you’ll likely need to get it notarised and legalised for it to be valid internationally.

That’s where document legalisation UK services come in.
In this guide, we’ll explain what document notarisation and legalisation mean, which documents require them, and how Notrexon UK simplifies the entire process through its digital notary and apostille services.

What Is Document Legalisation?

Document legalisation is the process of confirming that your UK-issued documents are genuine and can be used legally in another country.

This usually involves three key steps:

  • Notarisation – A notary public certifies your document’s authenticity.
  • Apostille Certification – The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) adds an official apostille stamp.
  • Embassy Legalisation (if needed) – Some non-Hague countries require further embassy validation.

Once these steps are complete, your document is recognised internationally for business, academic, or personal use.

Why Is Legalisation Important?

Without proper legalisation, a UK document may not be accepted overseas.
It acts as proof that the document is authentic, has been issued in the UK, and is verified by an authorised body.

For example:

  • Apostilled degrees are accepted by foreign universities.
  • Legalised Power of Attorney documents are required for property sales abroad.
  • Certified birth or marriage certificates are used for visa and immigration purposes.

Step-by-Step Process to Notarise and Legalise UK Documents

Here’s how Notrexon makes document legalisation in the UK fast and hassle-free:

Step 1: Document Notarisation

Before a document can be legalised, it often needs to be notarised by a licensed notary public in the UK.
At Notrexon, the entire process is 100% digital:

  • Upload your document securely.
  • Verify your identity using biometric checks.
  • Join a live video call with a certified notary.
  • Receive your digitally notarised document within minutes.

     

Step 2: Apostille Certification

Once notarised, your document is submitted to the FCDO for apostille certification.
This official stamp confirms that your notary’s signature and seal are valid under UK law.
Notrexon’s online apostille service ensures:

  • Same-day or next-day delivery
  • Legal recognition in Hague Convention countries
  • Full digital transparency

     

For more information about apostille services, you can visit The Hague Apostille Convention.

Step 3: Embassy Legalisation (If Required)

For countries not part of the Hague Apostille Convention, an embassy legalisation step is required.
Notrexon manages the process directly with the legalisation office UK, ensuring your document receives embassy approval quickly and accurately.

For further details, check the official government page on document legalisation: UK Government – Get Document Legalised (FCDO).

Apostille and notary document verification UK

Common Documents That Need Legalisation in the UK

Here are some of the most frequently notarised and legalised documents:

Personal Documents

  • Birth Certificates
  • Marriage Certificates
  • Divorce Decrees
  • Police Clearance Certificates
  • Educational Degrees & Diplomas 

Business & Corporate Documents

  • Power of Attorney
  • Articles of Incorporation
  • Partnership Agreements
  • Financial Statements
  • Employment Contracts 

Other Legal Documents

  • Medical Certificates
  • Property Sale Agreements
  • Immigration and Visa Papers 
Each document type may have slightly different legalisation requirements, but with Notrexon, everything can be completed digitally and securely.

Apostille vs Legalisation – What’s the Difference?

While both processes authenticate your documents, they apply to different country groups:

Type Used For Issued By Purpose
Apostille Hague Convention member countries FCDO (UK) Verifies authenticity
Legalisation Non-Hague countries Respective Embassy Confirms document validity


Example: If you’re sending a degree to Spain, an apostille is enough. But if it’s for UAE or China, you’ll need embassy legalisation after notarisation.

How Long Does Document Legalisation Take in the UK?

With Notrexon’s online process, you can get documents:
  • Notarised within minutes, and
  • Apostilled or legalised within 1–2 business days. 
This is much faster than traditional paper-based services that can take up to a week or more.

Why Choose Notrexon for Document Legalisation in the UK?

Notrexon UK is a trusted name in online notary, apostille, and legalisation services. Here’s why individuals and businesses prefer us:
  • 100% Online & Paperless -No travel or courier needed.
  • Secure Encryption  End-to-end data protection with biometric verification.
  • Quick Turnaround Apostille ready in 1–2 days.
  • Global Compliance Accepted in over 100 countries.
  • 24/7 Availability Access services anytime, anywhere. 
Whether you’re handling personal, academic, or business documents, Notrexon ensures complete peace of mind.

How to Get Started

Getting your documents notarised and legalised is simple:
  1. Visit Notrexon.co.uk
  2. Choose your Notary or Apostille Service
  3. Upload your document securely
  4. Verify your identity through our digital platform
  5. Receive your certified document within 1–2 days 
It’s quick, simple, and entirely online.

FAQs About Document Legalisation in the UK

Q1: What is the difference between notarisation and legalisation? Notarisation confirms authenticity within the UK, while legalisation ensures it’s accepted abroad. Q2: How long does an apostille take in the UK? Typically 1–2 business days with Notrexon’s digital process. Q3: Can I get my documents legalised online? Yes! Notrexon provides fully digital notary and apostille services that are 100% legally valid.

Conclusion

Navigating document legalisation in the UK doesn’t have to be stressful. With Notrexon, you can notarise, apostille, and legalise your documents all online, securely, and in record time. Whether you’re applying abroad, expanding your business, or verifying identity, our platform makes international documentation simple and compliant. Start your document legalisation process today atNotrexon.co.uk  your trusted partner for online notary and apostille services in the UK.

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