How to Get Your Documents Apostilled

What is an apostille?

An apostille is a certificate that is attached to (or stamped on) an official document by a government authority. It confirms that the document is genuine and was issued by the correct authority in your country. It was created under the Hague Apostille Convention (1961), which is recognised by 125+ countries, including China.

When China’s authorities receive a foreign document with an apostille, they know it has been officially verified without needing to contact your home country directly. Without one, your documents may be rejected.

Which documents need an apostille for China?

• Degree certificate: almost always required
• National background check (e.g. FBI check, DBS check): required for Z-visa
• Notarised copies of your degree: some employers require both notarisation and apostille

Step by step: getting an apostille

1. Identify the competent authority in your country

Each country has a designated authority that issues apostilles. Examples:

• USA: Secretary of State for your state (for documents issued in that state); US Department of State for federal documents like the FBI background check
• UK: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)
• Australia: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)
• Canada: Global Affairs Canada
• South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO)

Search: “apostille authority [your country]” or check the HCCH official directory.

2. Get a certified / notarised copy if needed

Some authorities will only apostille an original document. Others require a notarised copy first. For your degree, this typically means getting a solicitor, notary public, or certified translator to create an official copy before you submit for apostille.

Learn what notarisation means and how to get it →

3. Submit your document

Most authorities accept postal submissions. You will typically need to:

• Complete a short application form
• Pay a fee (usually £30-£80 / $20-$150 depending on country)
• Include the original document or certified copy
• Provide a prepaid return envelope (if by post)

4. Wait for processing

Processing times vary: 3 to 10 business days for most countries, up to 4 to 6 weeks in peak periods. Some authorities offer an expedited service for an additional fee. The FCDO (UK) currently offers a same-day walk-in service in London.

5. Receive and verify

You will receive your original document back with an apostille certificate attached. It will have a stamp, serial number, and the authority’s signature. Keep the original safe. Your employer or visa agent will typically need it, not a photocopy.

My country isn’t in the Hague Convention: what do I do?

If your country has not signed the Hague Apostille Convention, you will need to go through a different process called legalisation (also called authentication):

1. Get the document notarised by a local notary
2. Have it authenticated by your national Ministry of Foreign Affairs
3. Have it further authenticated by the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in your country

Check the full list of Hague Convention members.

Tips

• Get multiple apostilled copies of each document, since you may need them for different employers or visa applications
• Start the process early, as it can take 4 to 8 weeks total
• Check the expiry: background checks must typically be issued within 6 months of your visa application
• Keep digital scans of everything as a backup