Document legalisation: consulate and embassy
For countries that do not accept apostilles, a French document must be legalised: signatures are authenticated one after another until the consulate or embassy of the destination country gives the final validation. The chain differs by country and document type.
A multi-step process
Depending on the case, the document goes through an initial certification (chamber of commerce for business documents, notary or town hall for a private signature), then the competent legalisation office, and finally the consular section of the embassy. Each step has its own opening hours, fees and presentation rules.
We work out the right sequence for your country, prepare the forms, can advance consular fees, submit and collect the documents, then send them back by tracked post.
Typical files
- Company documents for a tender or a foreign subsidiary
- Invoices, certificates of origin and export documents
- Diplomas and transcripts for a job or studies
- Civil status certificates for marriage or relocation
- Powers of attorney and notarial deeds
Why let us handle it
A file rejected at the counter costs weeks. We know the specific requirements of each diplomatic mission (number of copies, stamp order, prior translation) and check everything before submission.
How an order works
Send your documents
A clear scan or photo is enough for a quote. Use the form, email or phone.
Get your quote
Fixed price, turnaround and delivery method within one business day. No obligation.
We handle the file
Translation, certification, apostille or legalisation: we follow every step.
Delivery
Signed digital copy and/or paper originals sent by tracked post.
Available in 50+ languages
- English translation
- Spanish translation
- Arabic translation
- German translation
- Italian translation
- Portuguese translation
- Russian translation
- Ukrainian translation
- Chinese translation
- Turkish translation
- Romanian translation
- Polish translation
Frequently asked questions
Does my destination country need legalisation or an apostille?
It depends on whether it has joined the Hague Convention. Tell us the country and the document and we will reply with the exact procedure.
Must the document be translated before legalisation?
Often yes, especially where French is not an official language. We handle the sworn translation and the legalisation in one file.
Do you need the original?
Yes, legalisation is done on the original or a certified copy. We explain how to send it to us securely.
Our other services
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Certified translation
Sworn translations by translators registered with French courts of appeal, accepted by French and foreign authorities.
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Apostille
We obtain apostilles on French documents for countries that are party to the Hague Convention.
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Document retrieval
We order civil status certificates, criminal records, company extracts and other official documents for you, in France and abroad.
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Interpreting
Sworn and professional interpreters for weddings, notary appointments, hearings, meetings and conferences, on site or remote.
Request a free quote
Every document is different, so we price your request once we have seen it. Reply within one business day.