Document attestation is often the make or break step for using UK-issued paperwork abroad. Whether you’re applying for a visa, moving overseas, or closing a business deal, getting your documents properly attested is essential.
Attestation is also referred as Consular Legalisation.
If you’re not sure what attestation involves, how it differs from apostille, solicitor certification or notarisation, or who can help: this guide is for you!
What Does Attestation Mean in Legal Terms?
Attestation means the act of witnessing a document being signed and then signing it yourself to confirm it was executed properly. It’s a way of verifying the authenticity of a document for official or legal use.
In the context of international paperwork, it often includes several steps, such as notarisation, apostille, and embassy (consular) legalisation.
Why Do You Need Attestation?
You’ll need attestation if you intend to use your UK documents in a country not part of the Hague Apostille Convention — such as the UAE, Qatar, Vietnam, or Egypt.
Without attestation, your documents might be rejected for visas, residency, employment, education, or business purposes.
See if your destination country needs consular legalisation
What Is the Difference Between Attestation and Apostille?
This is one of the most common questions we’re asked.
- Apostille is a standardised certification accepted by all member countries of the Hague Convention.
- Attestation is the process used by countries that do not accept an apostille alone — they require additional authentication, typically from their local embassy.
Learn more about Apostille Legalisation
What Is the Difference Between Attestation and Notarisation?
- Notarisation is usually the first step — a UK Notary Public verifies your identity and certifies the document.
- Attestation refers to the broader, multi-step process, including notarisation, solicitor certification, apostille (if needed), and consular/embassy legalisation.
Types of Documents That Require Attestation
Attestation is commonly required for:
- Educational Certificates (e.g. degrees, diplomas, transcripts)
- Personal Documents (e.g. birth, marriage, death certificates)
- Power of Attorney (PoA)
- Commercial Documents (e.g. Articles of Incorporation, contracts)
- Police Clearance Certificates (ACRO)
- Medical & Financial Records
Attestation Process in the UK
Here’s a breakdown of the typical process:
Step 1 – Notarisation or Solicitor
A solicitor or notary certifies the document as genuine.
The certification route will depend if requesting country requires solicitor certification or Notary Public certification.
Notary vs Solicitor: How to tell if you need a Notary or a Solicitor – Main Differences
Step 2 – Apostille (if applicable)
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) applies an apostille to confirm the document’s UK origin.
Apply for an Apostille
Step 3 – Consular or Embassy Legalisation
The embassy of the destination country adds its stamp or signature to confirm the document is valid for use in their legal system.
How Long Does Document Attestation Take?
- Notarisation: Same day or next day
- Solicitor Certification: Same day or next day
- Apostille: Next-Day
- Embassy Attestation: 2–15 working days depending on the country
WLS offers express options: We’ve completed full legalisations in 48 hours.
How Much Does Attestation Cost?
Costs vary depending on:
- Number and type of documents
- Notary fees (usually £80–£180 per document)
- Solicitor fees (usually £15–£50 per document)
- Apostille fee (£45 per document via FCDO)
- Embassy fees (vary by country, often £20–£200+)
- Courier & handling fees
You can request a quote from Westminster Legalisation here.
Country-Specific Requirements
Attestation requirements can vary significantly. Here’s a quick snapshot:
| Country | Apostille Accepted? | Embassy Legalisation? |
|---|---|---|
| UAE | Yes | Yes |
| India | Depends | Yes |
| USA | Yes | No |
| Saudi Arabia | Yes | No |
| China | Yes | No |
What Is an Attestation Certificate?
An attestation certificate is a physical stamp or label applied by an authorised body (e.g. embassy, FCDO, notary) confirming that the document has been verified and is ready for international use.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your Documents Attested
- Request a attestation quote specifying your document type and destination country
- We advise whether notarisation or apostille is required
- We submit to the relevant embassy for attestation
- You receive your document back securely by courier
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
- Submitting originals when copies are needed
- Missing notarisation before apostille
- Choosing the wrong legalisation route (apostille vs attestation)
- Not allowing enough time
- Using unrecognised translation services
Avoid all of the above — we’ll walk you through it.
Common Questions
What does attestation mean in legal terms?
Attestation is the legal act of confirming the authenticity of a document, usually by witnessing and signing.
What is the difference between attestation and apostille?
Apostille is accepted in Hague countries; attestation is required for non-Hague countries and involves embassy legalisation.
What is the difference between attestation and notarization?
Notarisation is a single step by a notary; attestation often includes additional authentication such as apostille and embassy stamping.
When do I need attestation for my documents?
When you’re submitting UK documents to countries that don’t accept an apostille alone — e.g., UAE, India, Qatar.
Who can attest documents in the UK?
A UK solicitor or Notary Public can notarise documents. Embassy or consular officials then perform the attestation.
How long does document attestation take?
Typically 2–15 working days for full processing, depending on country and courier times.
What documents require attestation?
Degrees, birth certificates, commercial documents, police clearances, PoAs, marriage certificates — depending on destination.
How much does attestation cost?
Expect £100–£200+ per document depending on steps involved. Request a full quote and be careful of placing online orders.
Need help getting started?
Request a Attestation Quote:
About the Author: Emerson De Queiroz Barbosa
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