Document Authentication & Legalization
Nigerian embassies and consulates provide document authentication and legalization services for various official documents needed for use in Nigeria or abroad.
Documents We Authenticate
Personal Documents
- Birth certificates
- Marriage certificates
- Death certificates
- Affidavits and declarations
- Police clearance certificates
- Powers of attorney
Professional & Commercial
- Educational certificates and transcripts
- Professional qualifications
- Commercial invoices
- Certificate of incorporation
- Board resolutions
- Company registration documents
Authentication Process
- Notarize your document — Have it notarized by a public notary in your country of residence
- Get apostille or FCO stamp — Depending on your country, get an apostille (Hague Convention countries) or Foreign & Commonwealth Office legalization
- Submit to Nigerian embassy — Bring the notarized and apostilled document to the embassy with completed application form, your Nigerian passport or ID, and the authentication fee
- Processing — Standard processing takes 3-5 working days. Urgent service may be available at additional cost
- Collection — Collect your authenticated document or arrange courier delivery
Important Notes
- Documents must be in English or accompanied by a certified translation
- Original documents are required (not photocopies)
- Some documents may need prior authentication by the issuing country's authorities
- Fees vary by embassy and document type — contact your local embassy for current rates
- A representative may submit documents on your behalf with a notarized power of attorney