Important Notice: FCDO Christmas Schedule and Apostille Processing Timelines

As we approach the festive season, we would like to draw your attention to the special schedules and considerations for apostille document processing during this busy period at the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCDO).

1. Increased Demand During Christmas: The Christmas season is traditionally a peak period for legalizing documents. Due to the higher volume of requests, more forward planning is essential.

2. Amended FCDO Timetable: The FCDO will operate on a modified schedule with reduced hours and closures over the festive period. This will impact processing times.

3. Early Submission Recommended: We strongly encourage you to submit your documents to us at the earliest opportunity to avoid delays.

4. Impact on Public Services: As the public cannot directly access FCDO services and requires the intervention of a notary public, the amended Christmas timetable significantly affects our processing times and availability.

5. Deadline for Apostille Completion: The last day for completing apostilles will be Thursday, 21 December 2023. Any documents submitted after this date are likely to be processed and returned after Christmas.

Below you will find more information on LEGALISATION OFFICE MK NEXT-DAY SERVICE DROP OFF COUNTER – HANSLOPE PARK 2023 Christmas and New Year opening hours: