Certifying documents in the UK is often required for visa applications, job offers, university enrolment, and legal procedures. This means having a trusted professional confirm that a photocopy is an accurate copy of the original. Acceptable certifiers include solicitors, notaries public, accountants, teachers, doctors, or bank officials—just make sure they’re not a relative, partner, or someone you live with.
Different places offer certification services across the UK. You can visit a solicitor’s office for formal cases, drop into selected Post Office branches using their Check & Send service, or go to banks and professional offices like those of doctors or chartered accountants. For documents that need to be used abroad, you may also have to get them notarised and legalised by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). Always check with the organisation requesting your documents—they decide which types of certification are acceptable.
How to Choose the Right Certification Option
A solicitor or notary public provides full certification and legalisation, ideal for legal proceedings or international use. If you just need a certified copy for local purposes—like university or job applications—a Post Office, bank, or professional office could be sufficient.
Post Office Check & Send services are typically more affordable, though they’re available at fewer branches. Solicitors and notaries charge higher fees but offer more complete certification, including apostilles. For international documents, FCDO legalisation ensures acceptance abroad. Always check whether your recipient needs notarisation, apostille, or both.
Simple Steps to Get Documents Certified
1. Bring both the original and a photocopy.
2. Choose an appropriate certifier (e.g., solicitor, post office, bank).
3. The certifier will write “Certified to be a true copy of the original seen by me” on the photocopy, along with their name, signature, occupation, contact details, and the date
4. For international use, have the document notarised and legalised by the FCDO.
Why Professional Help Matters
Certification requires accuracy and legitimacy. Getting it wrong can cause delays or rejections. Institutions such as embassies, universities, or courts often have strict rules. Choosing qualified professionals—like solicitors, notaries, or recognized linguists—helps avoid mistakes and ensures smooth acceptance.
Your One-Stop Solution: TranslationWrite
At TranslationWrite, we simplify the entire process. As a UK-based service registered with CIOL and ITI, we work with chartered linguists, solicitors, and notaries to deliver certified and legalised documents quickly and accurately Whether you're applying internationally or need translation, apostille, or certification, we’re here to help.
We offer eco-friendly, electronic submissions where accepted and provide certified translations with official covers, proofread to the highest standards. With secure handling, rapid turnaround, and global recognition, TranslationWrite is the trusted partner for businesses and individuals alike.
Final Thoughts
Certifying documents in the UK doesn’t have to be confusing. Start by identifying the type of certification your institution demands—certified copy, notarisation, apostille, or all three. Choose an authorised provider who meets those needs, then follow the simple steps above.
When you opt for TranslationWrite, you get a professional, end-to-end service that covers translation, certification, and legalisation with complete accuracy and compliance.
