Categories: apostille, FCDO

by Apostille Service

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Categories: apostille, FCDO

by Apostille Service

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apostille times

How Long Does It Take to Get an Apostille?

An apostille is a certification provided under the Hague Convention of 1961 for authenticating documents for use in foreign countries. Essentially, it confirms the authenticity of a signature on a document, the capacity in which the person signing the document acted, and where appropriate, the identity of the seal or stamp the document bears.

The process and time required for obtaining an apostille can vary based on several factors. In this article, we’ll explore the average time it takes to get an apostille and the reasons for potential delays.

Average Time to Obtain an Apostille

  1. Direct Application to a Competent Authority: If you’re applying directly to the FCDO  ‘the UK’s competent authority’ designated by the Hague Convention, the average processing time typically ranges from 15 to 20 business days. This timeline can vary based on the time of year and the workload of the FCDO.
  2. Through an Expeditor or Service Provider: Many individuals and companies choose to use an apostille service, like us, who specialise in obtaining apostilles for customers. This will reduce the processing time, typically taking just 2 to 3 business days to obtain the apostille. Some agencies offer slower services. We do not.
apostille on document

Reasons for Delays

Several factors can delay the processing time of an apostille:

  1. Incorrect or Incomplete Documentation: One of the most common reasons for delays is when the original document is not correctly prepared or is missing necessary signatures or seals. Always ensure your documentation is complete and properly formatted.
  2. High Volume of Requests: During certain times of the year, or due to staffing issues, the FCDO might experience a high volume of requests which can delay the processing time. Using an apostille service will mitigate this so find out more about our apostille service.
  3. Verification Needs: Sometimes, the FCDO might need to verify certain details or consult with other departments or institutions. Checking signatures or document validity. This back-and-forth can add to the processing time.
  4. International Postal Services: If you’re obtaining an apostille from a foreign country, or if the document needs to be shipped, delays can occur due to postal or courier services.
  5. Legal Holidays and Non-Working Days: Remember to account for weekends, legal holidays, and non-working days when estimating the time for your apostille request.
  6. Errors in Payment: Incorrect payment, whether it’s an incorrect amount or payment method, can also cause delays.
  7. Outdated Information: If you’re relying on outdated or incorrect information about the apostille process, you might end up sending your document to the wrong authority, incorrectly preparing a document for a specific countries needs, or not including necessary supplementary documents.

Tips to Avoid Delays

  1. Research: Familiarise yourself with the apostille requirements for your specific country and the country where the document is to be submitted.
  2. Professional Help: Consider using a reputable apostille service provider. Their expertise can help expedite the process and minimise errors.
  3. Double-Check Everything: Before sending off your document, double-check to ensure everything is complete, including payment.
  4. Stay Updated: If you’ve applied for an apostille and are awaiting its return, keep the lines of communication open and periodically check on its status.

In conclusion, while the process to obtain an apostille is generally straightforward, there can be unforeseen delays. By using an apostille service and understanding potential pitfalls and planning ahead, you can minimise these delays and ensure your documents are authenticated in a timely manner.

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