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.
Types of documents we can legalise
We can legalise many types of documents for overseas use. Documents must be Australian public documents. This means:
- originals issued by an Australian government agency or official
- originals issued by an Australian educational institution
- copies notarised by the Australian Notary Publics
See more about different types of public documents we legalise.
Please note: Damaged, framed or laminated documents are not accepted for authentication/apostille services.
Preparing your documents for legalisation
Follow these steps before you request our documents legalisation services.
- Ask the receiving authority which documents they need. Ask them which ones you must also get legalised. We can't tell you what they may want.
- Find out if you'll need either an apostille or an authentication for your documents.
- Confirm the documents are eligible for legalising by DFAT. If in doubt, contact us first.
- 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.
- Gather your documents. Check if there's any special requirements for your type of document.
- Make an appointment.
You may have additional steps to take to prepare some documents for legalisation. Learn more about preparing your documents for legalisation.