People often use the words notarisation and apostille as if they mean the same thing. They are two separate steps, and many documents need both.
What notarisation is
A UK notary public, or sometimes a solicitor, checks your identity and either witnesses you signing a document or certifies that a copy is a true copy of an original. The result is a document with an official signature and seal on it.
What an apostille is
An apostille is a certificate added by the FCDO Legalisation Office. It confirms that the signature, seal or stamp on the document is genuine, so that the receiving country can accept it. It does not check that the contents are true.
Do you need both?
- Public documents, such as birth and marriage certificates or Companies House certificates, usually need only the apostille
- Private documents, such as powers of attorney, contracts, degree certificates and passport copies, usually need certifying first and then the apostille
Some recipients want a notary specifically rather than a solicitor. For example, Italian consulates in the UK ask for a notary to verify qualifications. Always check what the receiving authority asks for.
Finding a notary
You can use any UK notary or solicitor that your recipient accepts. GOV.UK points to these official lists:
We can arrange notarisation for you, quoted separately before you pay. Our notarial practice, London Notary Public, is in Hayes, West London, is led by Mihail Florin Gavrila and is regulated by the Faculty Office of the Archbishop of Canterbury.
Our apostille price
Our apostille price is £100 per document, including the FCDO fee and tracked return. Notarisation and solicitor certification are quoted separately. See our pricing page.
Related guides: Powers of attorney, Degree certificates, Passport copies, All document guides.
Sources and review
Reviewed on 30 October 2026. Requirements can change, so check current official guidance and the receiving authority’s instructions before you order.
Apostille Help is a private service and is not affiliated with the UK Government or the FCDO. Document suitability and overseas acceptance need to be checked for each order.