Apostilled document service in the UK

Once you register a company, there are a number of important documents you need to familiarise yourself with. An apostilled document is a certified document issued by the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) that confirms that the specific document has been signed and legalised by a public notary or public official.

These documents are required to set up an overseas office or branch of a UK business or to set up a business bank account from outside the UK. Certain company documents (certificates) should be legalised by the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office to verify the authenticity of the company, and each relevant document needs a separate apostilled certificate.

Virtually every company document can be apostilled, but the most commonly apostilled documents for a UK limited company are as follows:

• Form IN01 (The application to register a limited company)
• Certificate of incorporation
• Memorandum of association
• Articles of association
• Shares certificate
• Certificate of good standing
• Change of company name certificate
• Confirmation statement (previously the annual return)
• Annual accounts

How to apply for apostilled certificates in the UK

Apostilles are issued by the FCO in London. Any document presented to the FCO for legalisation must have a recognisable stamp or signature of a UK public official whose origin can be traced and authenticated. You can apply to the FCO directly or you can get your documents certified and signed by a UK solicitor or notary public and presented to the FCO for legalisation.

Apostilled document service for a UK limited (LTD) company

When opting for Mint Formations' apostilled documents service for a Limited by shares company, you get the following in one bound document:

• Your company’s certificate of incorporation
• Your company’s memorandum and articles of association
• A list of your current officers

We offer a normal and express service to suit your needs. Please note that the timeframes indicated do not include courier delivery to your address, which might vary slightly.

Frequently asked questions

What does 'Apostille' mean?

“Apostille” is a French word that means to get certified or certification. The term is typically used in English to refer to the legalisation (or certification) of an official document.

Can I get any document apostilled?

Yes, almost all of your company documents can be apostilled, but the most commonly apostilled documents in the UK include:

• Form IN01
• Certificate of incorporation
• Memorandum of association
• Articles of association
• Shares certificate
• Certificate of good standing
• Change of company name certificate
• Confirmation statement
• Annual accounts

I’m a Non-UK customer. Do I have to visit the UK to get my documents apostilled?

No, you don’t have to visit the UK to get your documents apostilled. We will have your documents signed by a UK solicitor or notary and get them apostilled for you. You will receive the documents to your overseas address ready to use.

Can you send the apostilled documents of my company directory to a bank or other individual?

Sure, we can send your document to a bank or individual on your exclusive request via email from the registered email address we have on file.

How long does it take to receive these documents to my overseas address?

Delivery will depend on your location and the service you use. If using our normal apostilled service, your documents will reach our office in between 10 and 14 days. Once received and processed, we will send your documents to your overseas address via Royal Mail. Royal Mail Recorded Delivery takes around three to five working days for Europe and five to seven days for the rest of the world.