Original or certified copy?

Yes, a clear copy is often enough for the initial review. If an original, identification or personal signature is required, you will be told before the next step.

Use the recipient’s exact wording and what they need to verify: the document’s origin, the accuracy of a copy, a signature or a translation. Include the instructions with the document copy if the terminology is unclear.

Start with the document type, the country where it will be used and the intended recipient. If you have instructions or a checklist from the recipient, include them. This makes it easier to distinguish between an apostille, notarisation, a certified copy, translation and legalisation.

You can usually start with a clear scanned copy. If the original is needed for comparison, signature certification or an apostille, you will receive separate instructions on what to send and how to label it.