Quality control

Every request follows a quality model for complete accuracy and total peace of mind. When calling, please ask for more information.

What is legalisation?

Legalisation is the official confirmation that a signature, seal or stamp on a document is genuine.

Who does the legalisation?

The Foreign & Commonwealth Office is the authority that carries out the legalisations of all UK documents. They attach an apostille to each document. The apostille itself is signed by an officer and bears the seal of the FCO. It confirms the authenticity of the signature or seal on your document.

Can I send photocopies?

No, we need your original documents in order to be able to legalise them at the FCO and the relevant consulate and attach them to the certified translations.

Where can I get a legal copy of a Birth, Marriage or Death Certificate?

You can obtain a legal copy of your Birth Certificate from your local register office. This can be done online at the General Register Office website (www.gro.gov.uk)

What is a certified translation?

It is normally a legal requirement that a translation is certified by a competent professional. There are several types of certifications depending on where the translation is going to be used. In Spain it has to be certified by an "Intérprete Jurado" or Sworn Translator; in Cuba a notarial certificate is required; for other countries like Mexico or Dominican Republic, a certification by a professional translator member of a recognised association (like ITI or IOL) is needed. In every case, we can help.

What is a statutory declaration?

A statutory declaration is a declaration signed by a solicitor/notary public which states that there are no impediments for the declarer to get married.

How long does the whole process take ?

Normally you can expect your documents within a maximum of 3 weeks.

Is there an extra fee for urgency?

Yes. For requests outside our standard delivery times, a surcharge will apply.

How do I know which documents I need?

By answering the questions online, we'll be able to tell you what you need to send us.

For how long are my documents valid?

Validity varies country to country. Your travel agent will be best placed to advise you. Alternatively, please call us or use the Call Me facility and we'll be happy to help.

I have been divorced twice; do I need both decrees translated?

No, only the last one provided that the name on your passport is the name that appears on your last divorce decree.

How can I pay you?

You can make payment by credit or debit card (using PayPal) or by cheque
We only accept cash from customers attending our offices in person.

Once I receive the Marriage Certificate in Spanish, do I need to have it translated into English?

Yes, you will need your marriage certificate translated into English and certified by an authorized translator in order to register your marriage in the UK or, for example, change the name on your bank account. We can provide this service for just £83 (including VAT).