Police & DBS Certificates

Apostille an ACRO Police Certificate or DBS Check

Applying for a visa, emigrating, or taking a job overseas? Here's how to get your ACRO Police Certificate or DBS check legalised for international use.

ACRO vs DBS — which do you need?

This is the question most people get wrong. The two certificates serve different purposes:

ACRO Police Certificate

For overseas use — visas, emigration and working abroad. This is the certificate most countries expect when you move overseas.

DBS Certificate

Primarily for UK-based roles. If you need it for abroad, it must usually be apostilled first.

How the process works

  1. 1

    Obtain your certificate

    Order your ACRO Police Certificate directly from ACRO Criminal Records Office (or obtain your DBS). You'll need the original for apostilling.

  2. 2

    Send it to us

    We receive and securely handle your original certificate throughout the apostille process.

  3. 3

    Receive your apostilled certificate

    The FCDO applies the apostille stamp, and we return your legalised document ready for your visa or job application.

Need it urgently?

Express processing is available. Tell us your deadline and we'll advise the fastest reliable option.

Police Certificate Apostille FAQs