e-Apostille
An e-Apostille is a digital version of the traditional apostille certificate issued by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). It authenticates the origin of UK public documents for use in countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention. The e-Apostille is issued as a digitally signed PDF that can be verified online through the FCDO’s verification portal.
e-Apostilles serve the same legal purpose as paper apostilles but offer faster processing and electronic delivery. They are attached to electronically certified documents and include cryptographic signatures that prevent tampering. The digital format allows documents to be shared internationally via email without postal delays, making them particularly useful for time-sensitive applications like employment, education, or legal proceedings abroad.
Not all documents can be e-Apostilled. The underlying document must contain an approved electronic signature before the FCDO can issue an e-apostille. Some receiving authorities in Hague Convention countries may still prefer traditional paper apostilles despite e-Apostilles being legally equivalent.
When e-Apostilles Are Used
e-Apostilles authenticate UK documents for international use when the underlying digital document has been electronically certified by a UK solicitor or notary public.
Where They’re Accepted
All Hague Convention member countries should accept e-Apostilles, though individual requesting authorities may prefer paper apostilles depending on their internal systems.
Common Misunderstanding
e-Apostilles are not simply scanned copies of paper apostilles. They are native digital certificates with cryptographic security features that paper apostilles cannot provide.