Apostille and Legalisation: What’s Changing in France in 2025

5770 Views 47 Liked Posted on: 23 May 2025

When a French document needs to be recognised abroad, it often has to be formally authenticated. This process is carried out through either apostille or legalisation, depending on the country where the document will be used. As of 2025, France has introduced a major reform that simplifies these procedures by transferring responsibility to the notarial profession.


What’s the Difference Between Apostille and Legalisation?

Both procedures serve to confirm the authenticity of a public document issued in France, but they apply to different countries:

- Apostille: A simplified form of authentication used between countries that are parties to the Hague Convention of 05 October 1961. It involves placing a single certificate (apostille) on the document to confirm its validity.

- Legalisation: A more formal process required by non-signatory countries. It typically involves multiple levels of certification, sometimes including a visit to the foreign country’s embassy or consulate.



What’s New in 2025?

Previously, apostilles were issued by the Courts of Appeal and legalisations were handled by the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs. As of 2025, a phased reform is transferring these tasks to notaries:

- Since 01 May 2025: Notaries are now responsible for issuing apostilles.

- From 01 September 2025: They will also handle legalisation procedures.

This streamlining effort is designed to make the process more accessible, efficient, and secure.


How to Request an Apostille or Legalisation

There are two main options for submitting a request:

1. Online: Through a dedicated platform managed by the French notarial system:

https://apostille.notaires.fr/accueil

2. In person: At one of the 15 designated notarial centres across France.




You can submit:

- Paper documents: These must be signed by a competent authority (e.g. a mayor or a notary) or certified as true copies.

- Digital documents: These must bear a qualified electronic signature that meets the legal standards defined by the notarial system.



Why This Reform Matters

This change brings several key advantages:

- Faster processing thanks to online applications.

- Improved security via a national database of authorised signatories.

- Greater accessibility, with both digital and physical submission options available.


In Summary

France’s 2025 reform of its apostille and legalisation system makes it easier and quicker to have French documents legally recognised abroad. By entrusting notaries with this responsibility, the process is more centralised, secure, and user-friendly for individuals and businesses alike.

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