Why an apostille for Taiwan is not accepted
Many people seek an apostille from United Kingdom to Taiwan, but this is not possible because of Taiwan's status. While the UK issues apostilles through a central office, Taiwan does not recognize their validity for use within its jurisdiction. This means a different approach to document legalisation for Taiwan is needed. You must instead follow the embassy legalisation route through Taiwan's diplomatic mission in the UK.
Taiwan's position regarding the Hague Conference and legalisation
Understanding what you need for an apostille for Taiwan begins with knowing that the Hague Convention on the legalisation of documents does not include Taiwan as a signatory. This status means the simplified apostille process cannot be used. Instead, legalisation through embassy channels becomes mandatory for any British document intended for use in Taiwan. The process involves multiple steps but remains the only valid path for official recognition.
Complete walkthrough: Sunderland → Taiwan legalisation process
The first step is to acquire a fresh certified copy from Sunderland Registration Service if your paper is a birth, marriage or death certificate. The Service, located at City Hall, Plater Way, can provide this copy. This method protects the original from being lost in the post, as replacement takes time and a repeated application. For other papers, a solicitor or notary public must handle the certification before legalisation can proceed.
Once certified, the paper travels by post to the UK Legalisation Office at PO Box 6255 in Milton Keynes. Processing here requires an official fee, and turnaround times vary based on the chosen service level. After the Legalisation Office completes its stamp, the paper moves to the Taipei Representative Office in London for final validation. Without this final step, the paper holds no legal standing for use in Taiwan. Remember: this step completes the apostille for Taiwan process from Sunderland to acceptance.