Embassy Legalisation: When an Apostille Isn’t Enough (and What to Do Next)

For many countries, an apostille is sufficient. However, some destinations require an additional step: embassy or consular legalisation.

What is embassy legalisation?

Embassy legalisation is a process where a foreign embassy or consulate verifies a document (often after it has been apostilled) so it can be accepted in that country.

When is it required?

It’s commonly required for countries that are not part of the Hague Apostille Convention, or where a specific authority requests consular verification.

Typical steps

• Prepare the document (and notarise if needed)

• Obtain an apostille where applicable

• Submit for embassy/consular legalisation

• Receive the legalised document for overseas use

How to avoid delays

• Confirm the destination country’s requirements early

• Check whether translations are needed

• Allow extra time for embassy processing

• Use the correct document format and supporting paperwork

How we can help

We can guide you through the correct route and coordinate the steps so your documents are accepted abroad with minimal back-and-forth.

If you tell us the destination country and document type, we’ll confirm the recommended process.