Who Can Certify Documents in the UK?

If you’ve been asked for a certified copy of your passport, degree, or proof of address, don’t panic! Document certification is a standard process in the UK, but knowing who can actually do it is critical.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through who can certify your documents in the UK, when you need a solicitor or a notary public, and how to get it done properly.

What is Document Certification?

Document certification is when a legal professional verifies that a copy of an original document is a “true copy.” It’s often required for legal, financial, or visa-related applications.

The person certifying must sign and stamp the copy, confirming they’ve seen the original and that the copy matches it.

You may need certified documents for:

• Visa or passport applications
• Opening bank accounts
• Mortgage overseas
• University admissions
• Working abroad

Who Can Certify Documents in the UK?

Not just anyone can do this. The person certifying your documents must be in a position of professional trust.

Notary vs Solicitor: How to tell if you need a Notary or a Solicitor – Main Differences

Here are the recognised options:

Solicitor or Lawyer

Solicitors are one of the most common professionals for document certification for domestic use in the UK. However, specially in the middle-east and some European countries are also recognising solicitor certification for use in those countries.
They can certify:

• Copies of documents
• Signatures
• Identity declarations

More about our solicitor certification service.

Notary Public

Notaries are often required when your certified documents are being sent overseas.
They offer:

• Internationally recognised certification
• Witnessing of signatures
• Notarial acts for foreign authorities

WLS offers full notary services with fast turnaround.

Commissioner for Oaths

A solicitor who is also a Commissioner for Oaths can administer statutory declarations and certify legal forms.

Other Acceptable Professionals

• Bank or building society official
• Chartered accountant
• Doctor or dentist
• Minister of religion
• Teacher or lecturer
• Member of Parliament
• Local councillor
• Police officer (retired or acting in some cases)

However, from the above list of other professionals, only documents certified by doctors, Minister of Religion, Police Officers and local Councillors can be legalised by the FCDO provided their specimen signature is registered on the FCDO database.

Always check with the local requesting party overseas before choosing the professional to certify your documents: some may only accept certification from specific professionals.

Source: GOV.UK – Certifying documents

Solicitor Certification vs Notary Certification

If you’re sending documents abroad or dealing with foreign legal processes, notarial certification is usually required. WLS can help you determine the right option based on your needs.

Here is the Notary vs Solicitor: How to tell if you need a Notary or a Solicitor – Main Differences

How to Get a Document Certified

Here you can learn how to certify a document or obtain a certified copy.

Certification Step-by-Step Process:

1. Bring/send us the original document and we will take a clear photocopy.
2. Present valid ID to confirm your identity.
3. The certifier writes the respective wording applicable according to the type of document and certification required:
   • e.g.: “Certified to be a true copy of the original seen by me.”
4. They sign, date, and include their name, profession/capacity, and stamp with contact details.

Make sure to ask if the recipient requires a specific format or wording and the certifying professional will consider if possible.

Can I Certify My Own Documents?

No. You cannot self-certify your own documents or those of close family members. In the UK the certifier must be independent and professionally qualified.

Who can witness a signature in the UK?

A solicitor, notary public, or other authorised professional can witness signatures – especially for legal documents.

Can a bank certify documents?

Yes, many banks offer this service for account holders, however, this certification is not accepted if further legalisation is required. Check if your local branch provides it.

Can a non-practising solicitor certify documents?

It depends. If they still hold a practising certificate or are registered as a notary or barrister, they can.

Can a police officer certify a document?

Yes they can, particularly for proof of ID or UK Criminal Records Certificates. Always confirm with the requesting organisation.

Can anyone certify documents in the UK?

No. Only approved professionals with recognised qualification status can do this. Using the wrong person may lead to your application being rejected.

Where can I find a document certification service?

If you need a UK document certified, Westminster Legalisation Services can arrange the certification and, where required, the full legalisation process for you.

Depending on the type of document and where it will be used, certification can normally be completed by either a UK solicitor or a Notary Public. WLS can help determine which option is appropriate before your document is processed, helping you avoid unnecessary delays or additional costs.

We can assist with the certification of many types of UK documents, including:

• Passport and driving licence copies
• Academic certificates and qualifications
• Company and commercial documents
• Powers of attorney
• Declarations and affidavits
• Letters and private documents
• Copies of original documents requiring formal certification

For clients who need an in-person document certification service, WLS has offices in Covent Garden, London, and Milton Keynes.

You can also send documents to us by post or courier if an appointment is not required.

Do certified documents also need an Apostille?

If the document is being used outside the UK, certification may only be the first step.

Depending on the destination country and the requirements of the receiving authority, the document may also require a UK Hague Apostille from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

For countries where further legalisation is required, the document may also need consular or embassy legalisation after the Apostille.

WLS can coordinate the entire process, including:

Document certification (Solicitor or Notary) → Apostille → Consular legalisation → Certified translation, where required.

This means you do not need to arrange each stage with different providers.

If you are unsure whether your document needs solicitor certification, notarisation, an Apostille or consular legalisation, send WLS the document type, destination country and purpose of use. We can then confirm the correct route before you proceed.

What Does It Cost to Certify Documents?

• Solicitors: £10–£50 per document
• Notaries: £70–£180 +, depending on complexity, type of document, contry of use.
• WLS Certification Services: Get a quote here

Do You Also Need Legalisation?

If your certified document is for use outside the UK, it may also need an apostille or consular legalisation.

WLS can handle the full process for you:

• Apostille Legalisation
• Embassy Legalisation

Final Tip: Check Before You Certify

Some institutions (especially international ones) may reject certifications that don’t follow their exact wording or format or the right legal professional. Always confirm their requirements.

Need Your Documents Certified Fast?
WLS offers solicitor and notary certification, apostille and embassy legalisation (all under one roof): Get started now