Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know about our apostille and legalization services

The apostille (Hague Convention) certifies the authenticity of a French document for member countries: one step is usually enough. Since 1 May 2025, the apostille is issued by the competent centres of the notarial chambers / competent regional councils—not by an individual notary. “Full” legalization applies to non-Hague countries: since 1 September 2025, legalization is issued by those same competent centres—not by an individual notary. Consular or further steps may still apply depending on the destination. We explain the route that fits your file.

An e-Apostille is an electronic apostille; where the system allows, e-legalization or electronic legalization may also exist for certain routes. These formats can save time when authorities and the destination country accept them. Feasibility depends on the document, how it was issued, and the destination: we check case by case whether a fast, modern route is possible or whether paper originals are still required.

It depends on the document, how it was issued, the competent centres, and the destination country. We review your file on receipt to see whether electronic apostille, electronic legalization, or digital submission is acceptable, or whether paper must be used. We aim for the most efficient compliant option so you do not lose time unnecessarily.

Apostille and legalization timelines are not the same for every file. They vary with the document type, destination country, how complete your file is, whether originals, signatures, or prior certifications are needed, and how you send the papers. We offer a standard pace (often around 15 business days, sometimes about 7 depending on documents), express apostille or express legalization when the route allows (often roughly 3–4 business days), and urgent processing when authorities and your file make it realistic—without false promises. You get a clear schedule with your quote and fast handling as soon as we receive your request.

Yes, in many cases, as long as the document and mandatory steps allow it. Urgent apostille or urgent legalization relies on review on receipt, close follow-up, and express handling when the route permits. The final timeline still depends on the document, country, preliminary checks, and shipping method—we tell you honestly what is feasible. Mention urgent formalities or a document you need processed quickly from the first contact: we prioritise responsiveness whenever possible.

Yes. We steer files toward express apostille, express legalization, or more broadly fast apostille and fast legalization when the process allows. You get quick intake, step tracking, and faster return when compliance allows—tracked post, UPS, FedEx, DHL, or hand delivery as appropriate. Timing still depends on the act and destination: we stay transparent.

A wide range of French documents can be apostilled or legalized abroad, depending on the country and the papers. We regularly handle: civil status records (birth, marriage, death certificates); administrative documents and certificates; judicial documents where the route allows (judgments, criminal record extracts, etc.); notarial documents; corporate and commercial documents (Kbis excerpt, RBE, articles of association, certificates, export documents, certain customs-related papers where applicable); diplomas and transcripts; powers of attorney, certificates, and private deeds when prior formalities (certification, signature legalization) are met. Each file is reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

It depends on the document type and destination country. Some documents may be accepted as PDF or electronic files depending on their nature: French criminal record extracts are often available as PDF depending on the issued format; a Kbis excerpt or RBE may use recognised digital formats; certain online-issued records (e.g. Nantes or Paris services depending on act type and applicable route) may also qualify. For some powers of attorney or private deeds, a handwritten signature on an original or prior certification may be required. For CCI-related or commercial workflows, PDF may sometimes suffice depending on the document—we verify file by file, with no one-size-fits-all rule.

Yes. We process apostille or legalization for corporate and commercial documents: Kbis excerpt, RBE, articles of association, powers of attorney, commercial papers, export documents, certificates, and company documents for use abroad. We align the chain with the target country’s requirements, in a clear, expert tone.

Some documents require verification of signature, seal, certification, or compliance before apostille or legalization: administration-issued papers, private deeds, or files with specific steps. We identify this early, explain simply what is missing, and keep the process reassuring.

We commit to ensuring your file meets the requirements of the destination country. If a formal defect arises that we could reasonably have anticipated, we will remedy the situation in line with our general terms.

No. Send your documents by post, by email when possible for review or certain copies, or hand them in. We handle the competent routes in France—notably the competent centres of the notarial chambers / regional councils for apostille and legalization under current rules—then, if needed, consular steps or contacts in the destination country. You receive your documents at the agreed address.

We do not publish prices online. Each file is unique and receives a free, tailored quote. Complete our form with your project details (document type, destination country, desired timeline) and we will send a no-obligation proposal.

To move quickly while keeping your file safe, email us first with a short summary of any urgency, then send papers by post or tracked / registered mail, via UPS, FedEx, or DHL, or drop them off on site. We review on receipt. Returns are matched to the file: electronic delivery or copies when possible and accepted; otherwise tracked post, express courier, or hand delivery. We recommend the option that fits your deadline and document type.

It depends on the destination country. Some require sworn translation before legalization, others afterwards. We advise on the appropriate workflow for your situation and can include translation in our support.