How do I obtain an apostille for a Dutch document?
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Detailed explanation, checklist and sources
First check whether the destination requires an apostille, another form of legalisation or none for your document. Arrange the necessary signatures and follow the Dutch court's application procedure.
On this page
1. Choose document and country
Use NederlandWereldwijd to select the document type and destination country. Dutch documents do not need legalisation for use within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. This guide does not cover foreign-issued documents.
2. Check the route
An apostille is a simplified legalisation for treaty countries. Certain documents are exempt within the EU, not all. Other destinations may require further steps through the Consular Service Centre. Follow the document-specific route.
3. Obtain official paper
The court requires the official paper document with the necessary name and signature. A digital file alone is insufficient: ask the issuer for the proper paper version. Diplomas, for example, first need a DUO signature.
4. Choose the court
You can generally choose a court, but not every location provides this service. For a judicial judgment or order, use the court that issued it. Check the location, opening times and appointment requirements first.
5. Check application and fees
Follow that court's delivery and payment instructions. Another person may apply without a power of attorney. The national guidance lists €27 for 2026; check the fee and payment method for your application. Our preparation submits nothing.
6. Check acceptance and validity
Ask the foreign recipient about acceptable document age and translation requirements. An apostille verifies origin and signature, not the truth of the contents. The receiving institution determines validity for its use; no universal fixed period applies.
Can I submit a digital document directly?
No. Rechtspraak requires the official document on paper. Ask the issuing institution for the correct version; your own printout is not automatically the required official document.
Documents to prepare
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- Document type and origin
- Destination and recipient
- Exemption or legalisation route
- Official paper and prior signatures
- Court location, fees and submission
- Validity and translation requirements
Contact with a lawyer
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View the current application processSources
Need personal assistance? Request a lawyer through our chat. We explain the next step; submitting a request does not engage a lawyer. The links below support the legal information.
Rechtspraak · Apostille en legalisatie ↗NederlandWereldwijd · Nederlandse documenten legaliseren ↗Sources may be in Dutch. General information about Dutch law, not individual legal advice.