FCDO Apostille Translation for Spain
Many UK documents submitted to Spanish authorities need an FCDO apostille before they can be officially recognised. When the document is in English, the apostille — and the document it is attached to — typically need sworn translation into Spanish. This page explains what an FCDO apostille is, when it needs translation, and what to send.
What Is an FCDO Apostille?
The FCDO apostille is issued by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office under the Hague Apostille Convention. Its purpose is to certify the authenticity of a UK public document so that it can be officially recognised abroad.
Before 2020, this was issued by the FCO (Foreign and Commonwealth Office). The name changed when the department merged with the Department for International Development to become the FCDO. The apostille itself — its content, format, and legal effect — is the same. An older FCO apostille is still valid.
Common UK documents that may carry an FCDO apostille include birth certificates, marriage certificates, death certificates, ACRO police certificates, degree certificates, and divorce documents.
Does the FCDO Apostille Need Sworn Translation for Spain?
If the apostille is in English and it is being submitted as part of a document package to a Spanish authority, it is commonly translated together with the underlying document. The apostille is an official part of the document chain — it confirms that the UK document has been authenticated for international use. Leaving it untranslated while the rest of the document is in Spanish can make the package incomplete.
Requirements vary by consulate, authority, office, and date. Always check the current official instructions for the specific procedure you are following.
The Correct Order
The sequence matters:
Obtain the original document → get the FCDO apostille → sworn translation into Spanish
Translating before the apostille is attached means the apostille will not be included in the sworn translation. You would then need a separate translation of the apostille, which adds complexity and cost. The cleanest approach is to have the full document — with the apostille already attached — ready before arranging the translation.
What the Apostille Looks Like and What Is Included in the Translation
The FCDO apostille is typically a rectangular stamp or sticker affixed to the document (or attached as a separate page). It contains standard information including the issuing country, the authority that signed the document, the date of issue, and a reference number.
All official text in the apostille is included in the sworn translation. The translation covers the apostille as part of the document, not as a separate item.
What to Send Alba
You do not need to send originals. Send a full scan or digital PDF of the document with the apostille visible and complete. Do not crop the edges, do not separate the apostille from the main document, and make sure all pages are included and legible.
Once you submit your documents, Alba confirms which pages need translation and provides the page count and price. You receive a digitally signed and stamped sworn translation PDF by email. Payment is after delivery.
Alba can help with the sworn translation portion of the process. She does not provide legal or immigration advice.
Which UK Documents Commonly Have FCDO Apostilles
- ACRO Police Certificate
- Birth certificate
- Marriage certificate
- Death certificate
- Degree or academic certificate
- Divorce decree absolute or final order
For each of these, the standard process for use in Spain is to obtain the FCDO apostille first, then arrange sworn translation of the complete document including the apostille.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is FCO the same as FCDO?
Yes. The FCO (Foreign and Commonwealth Office) became the FCDO (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office) in 2020. Apostilles issued under either name serve the same purpose. An older FCO apostille is still valid.
Do I need the apostille before or after translation?
Before. The correct order is: original document → FCDO apostille → sworn translation. If you translate before the apostille is attached, the apostille will not be covered by the translation.
Does Alba translate the apostille separately or together with the document?
Together. The apostille and the underlying document are translated as a single sworn translation. This is the standard approach for documents submitted to Spanish authorities.
How much does it cost?
Pricing is €37 per page for standard delivery and €55 per page for 12-hour rush when available. Send your scan and Alba will confirm the page count and price before you commit.
How fast can the translation be done?
Standard turnaround is typically a few working days. A 12-hour rush option is available at €55 per page when the schedule allows.