A Certificate of Free Sale is an official document confirming that goods, typically food, cosmetics, medical products, or manufactured items, are freely sold in the UK. It is usually issued by a government department or a recognised trade body and is required to support exports to certain foreign markets.

This document is often requested by:

• Foreign customs and regulatory authorities
• Overseas distributors and trade partners
• Ministries of health or commerce abroad
• Import clearance agents in non-UK markets

Certification required: The certificate must be issued by a UK government department or authorised body. If not already bearing an official seal, it must be certified by a UK solicitor or notary public before apostille.

Original document: The apostille will be applied to the certified original or solicitor-certified copy.

Not eligible for e-apostille: Certificates of Free Sale must go through the physical apostille process.

Ensure the document includes the name of the issuing body, product details, and confirmation that the goods are sold legally in the UK.

Only official documents are accepted. Informal letters or manufacturer-issued declarations must be properly certified.

Some countries may also require a certified translation and further embassy legalisation. Always check the destination country’s requirements.