Navigating the legalisation of legal documents: how Legal 230 makes your job easier

When you set up a new subsidiary or take measures steps abroad, you need to ensure that your legal documents are fully valid in law. Mastering the legalisation process for legal documents is essential, whether for companies expanding their activities abroad or for individuals having to navigate between legal statuses in different countries. 

What is document legalisation?

Legalisation is an official procedure used to certify a legal document for recognition by foreign authorities. It is used to verify the signature and seal on documents issued in one country, so that they can be recognised as valid by authorities in another. This can involve a variety of documents, such as birth certificates, diplomas, company contracts, articles of association, certificates of incorporation and many more. Legal 230 simplifies this process by ensuring that your documents are properly authenticated, thus reducing delays and difficulties. 

Stages of legalisation

• Verification

Our teams will check that all the information required for legalisation is present and tell you whether the document must be an original or not, whether it must be notarised and all the steps the document must go through. 

• Notarisation

The initial step usually requires the authentication of the document's signatory by a competent local authority, such as a notary. 

• Apostille

Hague Convention countries are authorised to legalise a document with a simple apostille. The signature and origin of the document are certified by the apostille on the document. 

• Legalisation by foreign authorities

The document legalisation process is more complex for non-Hague Convention countries, involving the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and, finally, the embassy or consulate of the country in whic the document will be used. 

The challenges of legalisation

The difficulties associated with document registration can be significant. Many find the journey daunting, due to disparities between countries in legal requirements, language barriers and complex bureaucratic processes. In addition, the process can be onerous and demanding, requiring a meticulous approach through multiple stages. For example, at some stages photocopies must be provided in addition to the documents while at others a specific form must be filled in, and sometimes there is no option to deliver documents in person but only to send them in. 

With Legal 230, you don't have to face these difficulties alone. Thanks to our knowledge of the regulations and our network of contacts, we can smooth out any difficulties and optimise turnaround times. 

The importance of accuracy

Accurate, certified translation of documents into the language of the country in which they will be used is an essential part of document legalisation. It is necessary not only to translate the content accurately, but also to understand the specific legal terms and document formats required by foreign authorities. Legal 230 distinguishes itself by offering authenticated translations that meet the specific requirements of each country, ensuring that your documents are ready for international use. 

It is important to legalise legal documents to ensure their international recognition in an increasingly interconnected world. Legalisation is more than just an administrative formality; it encompasses an international opportunity that facilitates everything from personal matters to global business transactions. While the process may seem daunting, we're here to take it on for you. Legal 230 is your trusted partner for high-quality certified and sworn translations, ensuring the success of your international administrative and legal procedures.