Certification process

It depends on the version you hold. An original with a wet-ink signature or an embossed seal can go straight to the FCDO; a photocopy or print-out must first be certified by a UK solicitor or notary public.

Document requirements

Enrolled (court-sealed) → direct; unenrolled → solicitor certification first.

Digital e-Apostille

Possibly — an e-Apostille needs a PDF of your change of name (deed poll) that has been electronically signed by a UK solicitor or notary public. If you only hold the paper version, you'll need the paper apostille.

The Hague Convention

An apostille authenticates a UK public document for use in countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention. Destinations outside the convention may need further embassy legalisation instead.