Document Legalization, Notarization & Apostille in Egypt
Hermes Certified Translations guides and assists you through the entire document legalization process — from the Notary Public and Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to foreign embassy attestations — ensuring your translated and legalized documents are ready for international use without hassle.
Fully Accredited
Accepted by Embassies & Authorities
What is Document Legalization?
Legalization/attestation is a series of administrative and legal steps by which official authorities verify the authenticity of a seal and signature on an original document or its translation. This process ensures foreign governments recognize it as a valid official document.
When Do You Need It?
You need it when a foreign body or embassy requires your documents to be "legalized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs" or "attested by the consulate" as a prerequisite for accepting visas, scholarships, employment, or registering corporate branches.
Document Legalization Processes in Egypt
1
Step-by-Step Legalization in Egypt
- 1. Issuing the document from the official body and stamping it
- 2. Notarizing the document at the Notary Public or its directorate if needed
- 3. Attestation at one of the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs offices
- 4. Legalization at the consular section of the target foreign embassy
2
What About the Apostille in Egypt?
- The Apostille is a simplified international stamp for member states of the Hague Convention
- The Arab Republic of Egypt is not a member of the Apostille Convention yet
- The alternative in Egypt is the traditional multi-stage attestation (Foreign Ministry then Embassy)
- We provide declarations of conformity to simplify foreign requirements abroad
3
Translation First or Legalization First?
- The order depends entirely on the receiving body and their transaction rules
- Common path: Attest the original at the MFA first, then translate it with all stamps
- Some bodies require translating the certified file and attesting the translation itself later
Our Professional Workflow
1
Send documents
Clear photo or PDF via WhatsApp or the quote form
2
Get a quote
Within minutes based on page count and target language
3
Translation & review
Precise legal and technical drafting and official certification stamp
4
Delivery
Instant PDF via WhatsApp/email + stamped hard copy from branch or courier
Why Choose Hermes Certified Translations?
Translators certified by the Egyptian Ministry of Justice with full terminology alignment.
Official certification stamp recognized by all embassies and governmental bodies.
Fast 24-48h delivery with same-day express rush service available.
Heliopolis branch: El-Obour Buildings, Salah Salem, Bldg 31, 14th floor, Apt 3.
Giza branch: 1 Cairo University St., Giza Square, 8th Floor, Office 30.
Full and absolute confidentiality of all client data and documents.
Our Specialized Advantage
Up-to-date knowledge of Foreign Ministry attestation queues and embassy rules in Egypt, guiding you to the fastest and correct path.
Delivery Turnaround & Express Times
| Document Type | Standard Turnaround | Express/Rush Service |
|---|---|---|
| Civil Certificates Legalization (MFA) | 1 Business Day | Same Day |
| Embassy & Cultural Attestations | 3-5 Business Days | 48 Hours |
| Certified Translations Stamped with Attestations | 24-48 Hours | 6-8 Hours |
Price is calculated based on page count and target language — request a free quote now.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Egyptian Foreign Ministry attestation?
It is a process where the Ministry, via its attestation offices, verifies the authenticity of governmental or Notary Public signatures on your original document.
What is an Apostille and why is it not applied in Egypt?
The Apostille is a unified international stamp simplifying legalization between Hague Convention members. As Egypt is not a member, you must follow the traditional path.
Do you complete the legalization process on my behalf?
We provide complete guidance and support services, detailing the exact steps, fees, and office/embassy locations to streamline the process for you.
Should I translate the document first or legalize it first?
Usually, you legalize the original document first. Then, we translate the entire page including all legalization stamps and sign-offs in our certified translation.
How long does legalization take?
Egyptian MFA offices finalize attestations on the spot (same day), while foreign embassies and consulates require between 2 and 7 business days.
Does a graduation certificate require Foreign Ministry attestation?
Yes, if requested by a foreign university or employer. It must first be stamped by the issuing university or Higher Education Ministry before Foreign Ministry attestation.
Get Your Documents Certified Officially
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