Legalisation of Documents - Authentication and Apostilles
What is the legalisation process?
Legalisation is the process where we verify the signature, seal or stamp on a document. We compare it to what we have on record.
Once we confirm the match, we attach an apostille or authentication certificate to it. Ask the receiving authority what they need.
The apostille or authentication certificate verifies the signature and/or seal on the document. You can then present it to the authority overseas who asked you for it.
Apostille or Authentication?
Before making an appointment for document legalisation, you should contact the receiving authority who requested you have your document legalised. Ask what type of legalisation they are expecting on your document. Staff at the Embassy Commission cannot know or advise what option you need.
Types of documents we can legalise
We can legalise many types of documents for overseas use. Documents must be Australian public documents. See more about different types of public documents we legalise.
Please note: Damaged, framed or laminated documents are not accepted for authentication/apostille services.
Original university documents
You can submit original university documents for us to legalise, once verified by the university.
- You need to contact your university to verify your original degree as a 'true and accurate record'. This could be available via an online portal.
- We apply the apostille or authentication directly to the document you submit.
- If you don't want a mark on your original degree or transcript, supply us with a copy notarised by an Australian Notary Public.
Electronic official Australian documents
We accept a limited range of official Australian public documents electronically. See more about electronic official Australian documents.
Note: You may have additional steps to take to prepare some documents for legalisation. Learn more about preparing your documents for legalisation.
If your documents aren't eligible as-is, you may need to get them notarised first. Find a Notary Public in Australia. Send your document to them. Once notarised, we can legalise it.