Check whether an apostille is required

Coddan begins with the precise document and its issuing source. An LLP certificate, a limited-partnership registration certificate and a private agreement do not enter the FCDO process in the same way. For Companies House material, current registrar guidance says that a document intended for FCDO legalisation needs an original public official's signature and identifies a certified certificate or certified copy route. A private partnership instrument may need an appropriate notarial or other professional signature first. The FCDO determines eligibility and issues the apostille.

We also check whether the recipient will accept a paper apostille or an e-Apostille, and whether an embassy or consulate requires an additional stage. These are recipient-specific questions, not automatic extras. Coddan can order available documents, coordinate any required notarial work and submit an accepted instruction to the Legalisation Office. Official fees, professional work, return delivery and timing are confirmed for the actual route.

Provide the receiving country, authority, purpose, required document and any written checklist. We will identify the shortest supportable chain before asking you to pay for authentication.

Prepare the right document for the FCDO

A file downloaded from the register may not be in the form required for a paper apostille. Companies House says a document for FCDO legalisation needs an original British public official’s signature and explains how to request a signed certified copy or certificate. A privately signed document may instead need a suitable professional signature before the FCDO will consider it.

Paper and electronic apostilles are distinct options; eligibility depends on the document and the recipient. Check whether the overseas authority accepts the proposed form. The FCDO decides whether to issue an apostille, and the recipient decides whether the finished document meets its requirements.

Can I use an electronic apostille?

The FCDO allows an e-Apostille where an eligible PDF has been electronically signed by a UK notary or solicitor. A PDF download of a Companies House filing is not automatically eligible. If the recipient requires paper, or the proposed document is not eligible for an e-Apostille, check the paper route instead. Ask whether the recipient needs one apostille per document or accepts a group certified together.

Ask Coddan about this document

Send the partnership name and registration number, the document or fact requested, the recipient’s written instructions, the country of use and any deadline. We will review the request and explain what can be supplied and what remains to be confirmed before quoting.

Email your document enquiry