Apostille Legalisation for UK Civil Register (GRO) Documents

Civil register documents — including birth, marriage, death, adoption, and civil partnership certificates as well as Certificates of No Impediment (CNI) — are among the most frequently legalised records in the UK. Issued by the General Register Office (GRO) or local register offices, these certificates often need an apostille legalisation before they can be accepted abroad. Whether you are applying for a visa, citizenship, or marriage overseas, we make the process simple and secure.

What Civil Register Documents Can Be Legalised?

  • Birth Certificates
  • Marriage Certificates
  • Death Certificates
  • Adoption Certificates
  • Civil Partnership Certificates
  • Certificates of No Impediment (CNI)

Requirements and Process

Original documents required

Apostille legalisation requires the original certificate issued by the GRO or register office.

Photocopies are not accepted

Photocopies or scans are not accepted, even if authenticated by a solicitor or notary public.

Damaged or very old certificates

If your document is damaged, very old, or handwritten, you may need to request a new certified copy from the GRO before we can process legalisation.

1
Check

We check your documents meet the FCDO requirements.

2
Process

The documents are submitted to the FCDO for apostille legalisation.

3
Deliver

Documents returned securely, ready for international use.

Common Uses for Apostilled Civil Register Documents

  • Applying for marriage or civil partnership abroad
  • Visa or residency applications
  • Citizenship and nationality processes
  • Overseas adoption procedures
  • Inheritance or estate matters

FAQ

No, only original certificates issued by the GRO or register office can be apostilled.

No, civil register documents can be legalised directly without solicitor certification.

Some countries require an additional certified translation alongside the apostille. We can arrange this if needed.

Most GRO-issued certificates are legalised within 4-5 working days once received.

We can advise you on ordering a replacement directly from the GRO.

Not sure if your GRO certificate is acceptable?

Not sure if your document is acceptable? Send us a quick scan or photo and we’ll confirm the requirements for free. Get in touch by phone, WhatsApp, or email — or click the button below to contact us instantly through our form.

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