An apostille is a stamp or sticker in which a competent authority confirms that the signature on a public document is genuine. It is governed by the Hague Apostille Convention of 5 October 1961. Countries that have joined the convention accept each other's apostilled documents without further legalisation.
In the Netherlands, the district courts (rechtbanken) place the apostille on most Dutch documents. For some documents, such as diplomas, another authority has to legalise the signature first. We know these routes and make the application for you.
Documents we often apostille
- Civil status certificates (birth, marriage, death)
- BRP population register extracts
- Diplomas and transcripts
- Notarial deeds and powers of attorney
- KvK extracts and articles of association
- Judgments and court documents
- Certified translations
Apostille on a certified translation
Often the translation needs an apostille as well as the original document. For a Dutch sworn translation, this is done by the court where the sworn translator's signature is registered. We combine translation and apostille in a single order, so you send your documents once and receive everything back together.
Foreign documents
An apostille on a foreign document has to be issued in the country where the document was issued. Through our international network we arrange this in many countries, including obtaining the document itself if needed.
How it works
Send your document
Upload a scan or photo through the form or email it to info@abc-office.eu. Tell us what the document is for and in which country it will be used.
Receive a fixed price
You get a quote with price and delivery time. We only start once you approve it.
We translate and legalise
A sworn translator produces the translation. Where needed, we arrange the apostille, the legalisation or the retrieval of the document.
You receive everything back
Digitally by email and, if the authority requires it, on paper by post.
Frequently asked questions
Which countries accept an apostille?
All countries that have joined the Apostille Convention, including every EU member state, the United Kingdom, the United States and, since November 2023, China. If the destination country is not a party to the convention, legalisation through the ministry and the embassy is required.
Do I need an apostille within the EU?
Since 2019, many public documents such as birth and marriage certificates are exempt under the EU regulation on public documents. Not every document or authority is covered, so check with the receiving authority or ask us.
How long does an apostille take?
For Dutch documents, an apostille is usually arranged within a few working days. For foreign documents, the turnaround depends on the country and the issuing authority.
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We work for clients throughout the Netherlands, including: