Why Non-UK Directors Need Apostilled UK Company Documents

If you’re a non-UK resident running or helping run a UK limited company, there’s a good chance you’ll come across the term “apostille” at some point. And if you’ve never dealt with one before, it can feel like yet another piece of confusing international paperwork.

The good news? It’s far simpler than it sounds—and in many cases, absolutely essential.

In this guide, we’ll break down what apostilled documents are, why non-UK directors often need them, and the most common situations where foreign banks, regulators and institutions will ask for them.

What Exactly Is an Apostille?

An apostille is basically an international stamp of authenticity. It’s issued by the UK government under the Hague Apostille Convention, and it tells authorities in other countries that your UK document is official, genuine and trustworthy.

Think of it as a way for foreign organisations to accept your UK documents without needing their own lengthy verification process. If you're trying to do business across borders, an apostille often removes unnecessary friction.

Why Non-UK Directors Often Need Apostilled Documents

Opening a Business Bank Account Abroad

One of the most common triggers for needing an apostille is setting up a bank account outside the UK. Banks overseas want to ensure your company really exists and that you really are its director. They usually ask for apostilled copies of your Certificate of Incorporation, your Memorandum & Articles of Association, and sometimes a Certificate of Good Standing if your company has been active for more than a year.

It’s normal, and it’s simply part of their due-diligence process.

Working With Foreign Government or Regulatory Bodies

If your company needs to register in another country, apply for a licence or deal with a government agency, expect them to request apostilled documents. This could include your corporate documents, a power of attorney, or even an apostilled copy of your passport if you’re acting as the company’s authorised representative.

Many countries won’t accept UK documents at face value unless they’re apostilled.

Signing Contracts or Appointing Agents Overseas

Certain jurisdictions—especially in the EU, the Middle East, Asia and Latin America—will ask for apostilled board resolutions or powers of attorney before they allow you to sign contracts or appoint local agents. It’s a way for them to confirm that the person signing really has the legal authority to act on behalf of the company.

Setting Up a Branch, Subsidiary or Local Entity Abroad

If your UK company is expanding internationally, the country you’re expanding into will almost certainly ask for apostilled documents as part of the registration process. These might include your Certificate of Incorporation or a Certificate of Good Standing, along with documents that show who owns and runs the company.

It’s all part of verifying your corporate identity on an international level.

Visa, Residency or Tax Applications

If you’re applying for a business visa, investor residency or a tax identification number in another country, the authorities may want apostilled proof that you’re genuinely involved with an active UK company. This can include apostilled Companies House extracts or an apostilled copy of your directorship.

Which Documents Usually Need to Be Apostilled?

Although requirements vary from country to country, most non-UK directors end up needing apostilled versions of their:

• Certificate of Incorporation

• Certificate of Good Standing

• Memorandum & Articles of Association

• Director or shareholder information from Companies House

• Board resolutions or powers of attorney

• Passport or ID (in some cases)

If you’re not sure what your specific situation requires, we can advise based on the country you're dealing with and the institution’s rules.

Need Apostilled Documents for Your UK Company? We Can Help.

Apostille requirements can be confusing, especially if you're dealing with them for the first time. As a company formation agent, we can handle the entire process for you—from providing certified copies of your documents, to arranging notarisation if needed, to securing an apostille through the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.