e-Apostille Glossary

Clear definitions of the key terms you’ll encounter when obtaining UK e-Apostilles for international document use. From understanding what an e-apostille actually is, to technical requirements like electronic solicitor certification and digital signatures, to the role of the FCDO and Hague Convention.

Each glossary entry explains the term in plain English.

Glossary

Understanding e-Apostille Terms

e-Apostille

A digital certificate issued by the FCDO that authenticates UK documents for international use, delivered as a secure PDF with cryptographic signatures.

Electronic Solicitor Certification

The digital signature process where UK solicitors certify documents before the FCDO can issue the e-Apostille.

Advanced Electronic Signature

A cryptographically secure digital signature that meets FCDO requirements for electronic certification, uniquely linked to the signer and detects tampering.

Qualified Electronic Signature

The highest level of electronic signature under EU eIDAS regulations, legally equivalent to handwritten signatures and accepted by the FCDO for e-apostille certification.

FCDO Legalisation Office

The UK government department responsible for issuing all apostilles, operating as the sole authority designated under the Hague Convention.

Hague Convention

The 1961 international treaty that created the apostille system, simplifying document authentication between 126+ member countries without embassy certification.

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