When you need documents legalised for use abroad, knowing how long apostille processing takes helps you plan and avoid last-minute stress. This guide covers standard and express timelines, plus expert tips for a smooth process.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Apostille in the UK?
The time required to get your documents apostilled depends on the service you choose and whether extra steps are needed.
Standard FCDO Service:
- Processing time: 20 to 25 working days
- Best for non-urgent cases where speed and quick turnaround are not needed
- Risk of extra delays if forms are incomplete or documents need further verification
- Higher risk of rejection
Ace Apostille Fast-Track Service:
- Next-day apostille available: 1 working day.
- Each document is reviewed by a human before submission
- Lowest risk of document rejection
- Documents received before 11 am are ready the next working day from 3 pm.
- Documents received after 11 am are ready in 2 working days
Extra Services (add extra time):
- Notary public or solicitor certification: +1–2 days
- Translation: Usually +2–4 days
- Embassy or consulate legalisation: +2–10 days, depending on the country
What Can Delay Apostille Processing?
- Submitting uncertified or incomplete documents
- Errors in personal or document details
- Extra legalisation required for countries outside the Hague Apostille Convention
- High demand periods or postal delays
Tips for Fast and Stress-Free Apostille Legalisation
- Prepare your documents early, especially for urgent international deadlines
- Use a professional apostille service for document review and next-day turnaround
- Double-check all forms and details before submitting
- Deliver your document in person at Ace Apostille in London or Milton Keynes
Why Choose Ace Apostille for Speed and Reliability?
With Ace Apostille, you get expert help, clear timelines, and priority processing, so you never miss an important deadline. We handle all the paperwork, check your documents, and offer both standard and next-day options.
Order your apostille online now or contact us for a bespoke quote on urgent or complex cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an apostille in one day?
Yes – use Ace Apostille’s next-day service and make sure your documents arrive before the 11am cut-off time.
Why is the FCDO service slower?
Direct FCDO applications face longer queues and higher rejection rates for paperwork mistakes.
Most private users don’t know the intricacies involved with getting a document Apostilled and usually make a lot of mistakes.
What if I need embassy legalisation too?
Allow extra days. Some embassies take 2-3 days, but others can take up to 15 days for full legalisation.
