Apostille Service for NPCC, ACRO and ACPO Certificates

Updated

Why Police Certificates Need an Apostille

If you hold a UK background check document, whether it is labelled NPCC, ACRO, or ACPO, and you plan to use it abroad, most foreign authorities will require a Hague apostille to confirm the document’s authenticity. Our service can legalise all three types of certificates quickly and securely.

Who Typically Needs a Police Certificate Apostilled?

  • Individuals applying for visas or residency abroad
  • Those seeking employment abroad (especially in education, healthcare, or security)
  • People involved in international adoptions
  • Citizens going through immigration processes
  • Business people opening overseas branches or bank accounts

How to Order the Apostille

  • Complete the online order form for our apostille service.
  • Post the original police certificate to us (or include it with a paper order form).
  • We attach the apostille and return your legalised document by secure courier.

What the Initials Stand For

  • NPCC: National Police Chiefs’ Council
  • ACPO: Association of Chief Police Officers
  • ACRO: ACPO Criminal Records Office

Apostille UK legalises thousands of documents every year. Order online in minutes and get your paperwork apostilled within 2 working days.

View prices & order online

Ordering a Police Certificate

Any UK resident can request a police certificate online or by post; you will need proof of identity and address.

  • England, Wales, Northern Ireland, Jersey and the Isle of Man: apply via acro.police.uk.
  • Scotland: apply through mygov.scot or, for employment checks, Disclosure Scotland.

ACRO Certificate Fees

  • Standard: £45 — 10 working days
  • Express: £80 — 2 working days

A Subject Access Report (£10, about 40 days) is also available but is meant for personal use and should not be supplied to employers.

Accepted ID Documents (for Certificate Application)

  • Passport
  • Driving licence
  • Utility bill (last 3 months)
  • Bank statement

Once you receive your police certificate, send the original document to us. We will arrange for the Hague apostille to be issued, typically within two working days, ensuring your document is ready for urgent visa, immigration, or employment requirements abroad.

Need Help?

Unsure which document you need or how to legalise it? Our team processes thousands of certificates every year and will guide you through every step.