Birth certificates are one of the most common documents we apostille. They are public documents, so they can go straight to the FCDO Legalisation Office with no solicitor or notary step, as long as they meet a few rules.
The rules that matter
- The apostille must be attached to an original certificate issued by a registrar or the General Register Office (GRO), or a certified copy issued by them
- The FCDO normally expects an original certificate or an official certified copy, not a photocopy certified by a solicitor
- Birth certificates are not eligible for the electronic e-Apostille, so you get a paper apostille
- The apostille is attached to the certificate itself, so send us the certificate you intend to use abroad
Full or short certificate?
Many foreign authorities want the full certificate, which shows the parents’ details, rather than the short version. Check what the receiving authority asks for before you order a new copy.
If you do not have the original
Order a new certified copy from the GRO or the local register office before you send it to us. Certificates issued in Scotland or Northern Ireland follow similar rules, so tell us what you hold and we will confirm.
Marriage and death certificates
The same rules apply to marriage, civil partnership and death certificates and other documents issued by the General Register Office.
Cost and timing
Our apostille price is £100 per document. This includes the FCDO fee and tracked return, and we aim to finish within 2 working days of your documents arriving at our office.
See our pricing, how it works and FAQ. Related guides: Apostille for Spain, Apostille for Italy, Apostille for Romania.
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. Requirements vary by receiving authority and can change, so please check with them before you order.