Securing official recognition for your Companies House document is critical when you need to satisfy overseas authorities, international banks, or regulatory bodies. From incorporation certificates to certificates of good standing, these documents are essential for demonstrating your business’s legitimacy and compliance. Understanding whether you need notarization, an Apostille, or a certified copy – and knowing how to obtain them efficiently – is key to avoiding unnecessary delays. This guide explains the process and how NotaryPublic24 delivers a streamlined, professional online solution that matches the standards of any solicitor.
What Is a Companies House Document?
A Companies House document is an official record issued by the UK’s registrar of companies, Companies House. These documents serve as proof of your business’s legal status and structure. Common examples include:
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Certificate of Good Standing
- Memorandum & Articles of Association
- Annual Returns
- Director or Secretary appointments
They are frequently required for cross-border business, banking, licensing, or legal matters – often with specific demands for certification or authentication.
Upload a Document to Companies House: The Process
When you need to submit changes or updates – such as appointing a director or changing your registered address – you’ll likely need to upload supporting documents to Companies House. Here’s how:
- Prepare the Document: Ensure it meets Companies House’s specifications (usually PDF, legible, signed as required).
- Log In to Companies House WebFiling: Use your company’s authentication credentials.
- Upload and Submit: Follow the online prompts for your filing type.
- Confirmation: Companies House will confirm receipt and acceptance by email.
Once accepted, you can obtain official Companies House documents, which may then require certification, Apostille, or notarization for international use.
Companies House Document: Apostille, Notarization, or Both?
International authorities often require additional authentication for Companies House documents. Requirements vary:
Apostille Only:
For most countries in the Hague Convention, an Apostille issued by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) confirms the document’s authenticity. No notarization is needed if you have the original document.
Notarization Before Apostille:
Some jurisdictions or institutions request that a Companies House document be notarized by a UK Notary Public prior to Apostille. This typically applies to certified copies or where additional legal assurance is required.
Certified Copy by Solicitor or Notary:
If you submit a copy, rather than an original, it must be certified as a true copy by a solicitor or notary before an Apostille can be issued.
NotaryPublic24 can review your case and advise on the most suitable route, ensuring compliance with international requirements and assist you with everything you need for your specific case.
Companies House Document with Apostille: Without Notarizing
A common query is whether you can obtain an Apostille on a Companies House document without notarizing it first.
In most cases, yes.
Original Companies House documents are official government records, and the FCDO can Apostille them directly. No notarization is required unless:
- You are using a copy of the document,
- The recipient specifically requests notarization, or
- The document requires additional certification for legal or procedural reasons.
How NotaryPublic24 Assists:
- We confirm whether your document qualifies for direct Apostille.
- For copies, we certify and notarize online before arranging the Apostille.
- Our process ensures you meet all the destination country’s requirements.
Certified Copy of a Document for Companies House: Solicitor or NotaryPublic24?
Traditionally, certifying a Companies House document meant visiting a solicitor in person – a process that could take days and often required appointments and physical paperwork. With NotaryPublic24, that’s no longer necessary. Our fully online service provides a secure, UK-compliant certification that is equivalent in legal standing to one obtained from a solicitor.
When you choose NotaryPublic24, you experience a faster turnaround – most documents are certified within 24 hours. There’s no need to schedule appointments or travel; our advanced biometric and encrypted verification processes ensure your identity and documents are protected at every step. The certified documents you receive from us are ready for Apostille and widely accepted both in the UK and internationally.
In short, NotaryPublic24 offers all the benefits of a solicitor – legal validity, compliance, and acceptance – combined with the speed, convenience, and security of an online platform. Your certified Companies House document is just a few clicks away, with no compromise on quality or recognition.
Do I Need a Notarized Document from Companies House?
Determining whether you need a notarized Companies House document depends on the recipient’s requirements.
- Originals: Usually, you can obtain an Apostille directly from the FCDO – no notarization needed.
- Copies or Special Requests: If you’re using a copy or the recipient specifically asks for notarization, you’ll need a certified and notarized version.
NotaryPublic24 is equipped to advise and process your Companies House document in accordance with specific international or institutional requirements.
How to Certify and Apostille Your Companies House Document Online
With NotaryPublic24, the certification and Apostille process is efficient and fully online:
- Select Required Services
Choose between certification, notarization, or Apostille, based on your needs.
- Upload Your Companies House Document
Access our secure portal and submit your file.
- Identity Verification
Complete our advanced biometric verification process using eID.
- Online Checkout
Make secure payment; all services carry a money-back guarantee if not completed.
- Processing
We certify, notarize, and, if needed, prepare and Apostille your Companies House document.
- Receive Your Document
Download a digital copy or request a hard copy by post.
All steps are managed online, ensuring security, speed, and compliance.
Why Use NotaryPublic24 for Your Companies House Document?
- Fully Online: No in-person meetings or postal delays.
- Rapid Turnaround: Most documents are certified or notarized within 24 hours.
- International Acceptance: All documents are prepared to meet international legal standards.
- Legally Recognized: Our certifications and notarizations are valid under UK law.
- Secure & Confidential: Advanced encryption and biometric verification.
- Money-Back Guarantee: Full refund if your document cannot be processed.
Companies House Document FAQs
Can I upload my Companies House document directly for certification?
Yes. Simply upload your document to NotaryPublic24, and our team will manage the certification process online.
Do I need a solicitor to certify my Companies House document?
No. Our notary service provides online certification that is legally equivalent to a solicitor’s.
Is notarization always required before Apostille for Companies House documents?
Not for originals. Notarization is only needed for copies or when specifically requested.
How quickly can I receive my certified Companies House document?
Most documents are processed and delivered within 24 hours.
Are online certifications accepted by banks and authorities?
Yes. Our certified copies and notarized documents are compliant and widely accepted.
What happens if my recipient refuses an online certification?
This is highly unlikely, but we provide a full refund if your document is not accepted.
Conclusion
Obtaining certification and Apostille for your Companies House document no longer requires lengthy appointments or traditional solicitor visits. NotaryPublic24’s online service offers a fast, secure, and legally recognized alternative, delivering certified, notarized, and Apostilled documents for global business needs. Whether you need a certified copy, notarization, or Apostille, our process is efficient and meets all UK and international requirements. Rely on NotaryPublic24 for professional, compliant, and prompt handling of your Companies House documents every time.
