UK Degree Verification, Solicitor Certification and Apostille for Use in Spain

Do you need to use a UK degree certificate or academic transcript in Spain?

A Spanish university, professional body or public authority may ask you to prove that your qualification is genuine. In many cases, you will need university verification, solicitor certification and a UK FCDO Apostille.

Ginkgo Advisory provides a complete UK degree apostille service for Spain.

We can help you with:

• UK degree and transcript verification
• HEDD degree verification
• Verification through secure university platforms
• Direct checks with the awarding university
• Enhanced solicitor certification
• Authenticity confirmation
• UK FCDO Apostille
• A two-working-day express Apostille option
• Paper and electronic Apostilles
• International delivery to Spain
• Embassy legalisation for non-Hague countries

Moreover, you may not need to send your original certificate to London. If your university provides secure electronic records, we may complete the verification and certification process remotely.

Do UK Degrees Need an Apostille for Spain?

UK academic documents often need an Apostille when a student uses them for university registration in Spain.

The attached enrolment guidance states that students must provide enough evidence that they completed their previous undergraduate studies.

At registration, the student must bring:

• The original undergraduate diploma and a photocopy
• The original academic transcript and a photocopy
• The original passport or Spanish identity document and a photocopy

In addition, the awarding university must sign and stamp both the degree certificate and the transcript.

The institution may also accept printed copies of original electronic documents. However, each document must include a QR code or authentication code that staff can verify online.

Most importantly, students with qualifications from outside the EU, EEA or Switzerland must authenticate both the diploma and the transcript. They must use either a Hague Apostille or diplomatic legalisation.

They must also complete the authentication process in the country that issued the documents. Therefore, a graduate with UK academic documents must arrange the Apostille process in the United Kingdom, not in Barcelona.

Do Both the Degree and Transcript Need an Apostille?

Yes, the attached guidance requires authentication of both documents.

Therefore, applicants should not assume that an Apostille on the degree certificate alone will meet the registration rules.

Sometimes, a solicitor can certify the degree and transcript as one document bundle. The FCDO may then attach one Apostille to that bundle.

However, the Spanish institution’s guidance does not clearly confirm whether it accepts this approach.

For that reason, the safer option usually involves:

• One certified degree certificate with its own Apostille
• One certified academic transcript with its own Apostille

Separate Apostilles also give you more flexibility. For example, you may later need to submit only the transcript to another university or only the degree certificate to an employer.

Before choosing a combined bundle, you should ask the receiving institution to confirm its policy in writing.

What Happens to the Originals at Registration?

The attached guidance asks students to present their original academic documents during registration.

The university checks the originals and then returns them to the student.

Meanwhile, the university keeps the apostilled or legalised certified copies if the Apostille or legalisation appears on those copies.

As a result, students can keep their original degree certificate and transcript after registration.

You should therefore avoid sending or surrendering your original documents permanently unless the institution specifically asks you to do so.

Can Spain Accept Electronic Degree Documents?

Yes, some Spanish institutions accept verifiable electronic academic documents.

According to the attached guidance, the institution accepts printed copies of original electronic documents when they include:

• A QR code
• An online authentication code
• Another verification method that staff can check online

This rule can help graduates whose universities issue certificates and transcripts through secure platforms.

For example, universities may use:

• Digitary CORE
• Parchment
• A secure graduate record portal
• A university verification website
• A digitally signed PDF
• A QR-code verification system

However, a normal downloaded PDF may not provide enough proof.

Therefore, the graduate should share the document directly with our solicitor through the official platform whenever possible. This approach allows us to check the original electronic record instead of relying on an ordinary email attachment.

What Is UK Degree Verification?

Degree verification confirms that a recognised UK university or awarding institution granted the qualification.

A photocopy shows the contents of a document. However, it does not prove that the university issued it.

A proper verification check may confirm:

• The graduate’s full name
• The awarding institution
• The qualification
• The subject
• The degree classification
• The award date
• The attendance dates
• The authenticity of the certificate
• The authenticity of the transcript

The best verification route depends on the university, the graduation date and the format of the documents.

HEDD Degree Verification

HEDD provides an established verification route for many UK higher education qualifications.

When a university uses HEDD, we can submit a verification request with the graduate’s details and signed consent.

Depending on the university, HEDD may confirm:

• Whether the person attended the university
• Which qualification the university awarded
• The degree classification
• The dates of study
• The date of graduation

HEDD works particularly well when:

• The graduate only has a paper certificate
• The document has no online verification code
• The Spanish institution wants independent confirmation
• The university directs third parties to HEDD
• The solicitor needs evidence before confirming authenticity

However, not every UK university uses HEDD.

Therefore, we may need to use another official route.

Other UK University Verification Routes

UK universities use different systems for academic records. Consequently, we select the most suitable route for each case.

Secure university document platforms

Many universities issue academic documents through secure platforms such as Digitary CORE or Parchment.

The graduate can share the certificate or transcript directly with our solicitor.

This process gives us access to the record through its official source. Therefore, it provides stronger evidence than a PDF that the graduate downloaded and forwarded by email.

QR codes and authentication codes

Some degree certificates and transcripts include a QR code or verification number.

We can use that code to open an official university webpage and check the academic details.

This option also matches the attached Spanish guidance, which accepts printed electronic documents with an online verification method.

University verification portals

Some institutions operate their own online verification portals.

The portal may confirm:

• The graduate’s name
• The certificate number
• The qualification
• The date of award
• The document’s validity

Direct confirmation from the university

If the university does not offer HEDD or an online portal, we may contact its registry, awards office or student records team.

The university may ask for:

• Written consent from the graduate
• A passport copy
• The student number
• The date of birth
• A certificate copy
• A verification fee

Although this route may take longer, it can provide reliable confirmation directly from the awarding institution.

Official university email confirmation

Some universities confirm qualifications by email.

In that case, we check that the message comes from an official university domain. We also check that the appropriate department sent it.

The email should clearly identify the graduate and the award.

Digitally signed academic documents

A university may issue a document with a digital signature, electronic seal or built-in validation data.

We can examine the signature and confirm the identity of the issuing institution.

If the document passes the checks, it may support enhanced solicitor certification.

What Is Enhanced Solicitor Certification?

A basic certified copy usually confirms that the copy matches the document shown to the solicitor.

However, that wording does not always confirm that the qualification itself is genuine.

For use in Spain, an applicant may need stronger wording.

Therefore, Ginkgo Advisory can provide enhanced solicitor certification after we complete an official verification check.

Depending on the evidence, our solicitor may confirm that:

• We accessed the document through a secure university platform
• HEDD confirmed the academic award
• The university confirmed the qualification directly
• We checked the QR code or authentication code
• We validated the digital signature
• The institution issued the academic record
• The certified copy matches the verified academic document

This wording creates a stronger link between the university record and the certified copy.

However, the solicitor must only confirm checks that actually took place. For that reason, we tailor the wording to the evidence in each case.

What Is the Difference Between Verification and Certification?

Verification and certification serve different purposes.

First, verification checks whether the university genuinely awarded the qualification.

Next, solicitor certification records the solicitor’s formal statement about the document.

For example, the solicitor may receive a transcript through Parchment. The solicitor then checks the university source and the document details. After that, the solicitor prepares a certified copy with enhanced authenticity wording.

This process gives the receiving institution a clear chain of evidence.

By contrast, a basic certified photocopy only confirms that the copy matches the document presented.

How Does the FCDO Apostille Work?

After verification and solicitor certification, we submit the document to the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.

The FCDO then checks the solicitor’s signature and professional capacity.

It is important to understand that the Apostille does not verify the degree itself.

Instead:

• The university verification confirms the academic award
• The solicitor certification records the verification
• The Apostille authenticates the solicitor’s signature

Together, these steps create a complete document authentication process.

Our service can include:

• Reviewing the Spanish requirements
• Checking the degree certificate
• Checking the transcript
• Selecting the verification route
• Completing the university verification
• Preparing enhanced solicitor certification
• Submitting the documents to the FCDO
• Checking the completed Apostilles
• Sending the documents to Spain or another destination

Two-Working-Day Express FCDO Apostille

We offer a two-working-day express FCDO Apostille option for eligible paper documents.

However, the two-working-day period only applies to the FCDO stage.

Before submission, we must complete:

• University verification
• Consent checks
• Document review
• Solicitor certification
• Preparation of the physical document

Therefore, the total processing time depends on the verification route.

For example, a secure electronic platform may allow us to verify the document quickly. In contrast, direct confirmation from a university may take several working days.

Should You Choose a Paper or Electronic Apostille?

The correct choice depends on the Spanish institution’s registration process.

Paper Apostille

A paper Apostille attaches to a physical solicitor-certified copy.

This option may suit you when:

• You must attend registration in person
• The institution wants to keep the certified copies
• Staff need to inspect the paper documents
• The institution has not confirmed that it accepts electronic Apostilles

Because the attached guidance refers to original documents, photocopies and retained certified copies, a paper Apostille may offer the safer option for this type of registration.

Electronic Apostille

An electronic Apostille may suit you when:

• The university issued the document electronically
• The solicitor uses an accepted electronic signature
• The receiving institution accepts digital legalisation
• You will submit the documents through an online portal

However, you should ask the Spanish institution to confirm acceptance before relying on an electronic Apostille.

Do English Academic Documents Need Translation?

Under the attached guidance, the institution accepts academic documents in:

• Catalan
• Spanish
• French
• Italian
• Portuguese
• English

Therefore, a UK degree certificate and transcript in English do not require translation for that specific registration process.

However, documents in other languages need a translation into Spanish, Catalan or English.

An accepted translator or authority must sign and stamp the translation. The guidance accepts translations from:

• An authorised and registered sworn translator
• A Spanish diplomatic or consular office
• A diplomatic or consular office of the country that issued the document

Nevertheless, another Spanish authority may apply different translation rules. Therefore, applicants should also check any separate requirements that apply to professional recognition, immigration or public registration.

Can You Complete the Process Without Sending the Originals?

Yes, in many cases.

A graduate living in Hong Kong, Spain or another country may not need to post the original degree certificate or transcript to London.

We may complete remote verification through:

• HEDD
• Digitary CORE
• Parchment
• A university portal
• A QR code
• An authentication code
• A digital signature
• Direct university confirmation

After verification, our solicitor can prepare certified copies for the FCDO Apostille process.

Meanwhile, the graduate can keep the originals and bring them to Spain for registration.

Where Must the Apostille Process Take Place?

The attached guidance states that applicants must authenticate academic documents in the country of issue.

Therefore, applicants with UK documents must complete the process in the United Kingdom.

They cannot complete the UK Apostille process after arriving in Barcelona.

For this reason, applicants should start the process before travelling or before their registration deadline.

Embassy Legalisation for Non-Hague Countries

UK academic documents for Spain normally follow the Hague Apostille process.

However, Ginkgo Advisory also helps clients who need to use UK documents in non-Hague countries.

In those cases, the process may include:

1. University verification
2. Enhanced solicitor certification
3. FCDO authentication
4. Embassy or consular legalisation
5. International delivery

The embassy or consulate may apply extra rules. Therefore, we review the destination and intended use before we confirm the process.

Our UK Degree Apostille Process for Spain

Step 1: Send us the Spanish requirements

First, send us the university leaflet, registration instructions or document checklist.

We will check whether the institution requires the degree and transcript separately.

Step 2: Send copies of your documents

Next, send us a copy of the degree certificate and academic transcript.

If the documents contain a QR code or authentication code, please include the full document.

Step 3: Share the secure electronic records

If your university uses Parchment, Digitary CORE or another secure platform, share both documents directly with us.

This step allows us to verify the official records.

Step 4: Complete the verification

We then check the degree and transcript through the appropriate route.

For example, we may use HEDD, a university platform or direct institutional confirmation.

Step 5: Prepare enhanced solicitor-certified copies

After verification, our solicitor prepares the certified copies.

The certification wording will explain the authenticity checks that we completed.

Step 6: Obtain the FCDO Apostilles

We then submit the certified documents to the FCDO.

You can choose the available two-working-day express option for eligible paper documents.

Step 7: Check the completed documents

Once the FCDO completes the Apostilles, we check the names, signatures and document attachments.

Step 8: Arrange delivery

Finally, we send the completed documents to your chosen address.

We can deliver them to:

• Spain
• The United Kingdom
• Hong Kong
• Another international destination
• The receiving institution, where permitted

Courier charges depend on the destination and service level.

Which Academic Documents Can We Help With?

We can assist with:

• Bachelor’s degree certificates
• Master’s degree certificates
• Doctoral and PhD certificates
• Academic transcripts
• Diploma supplements
• Graduation letters
• Award confirmation letters
• Student status letters
• Enrolment letters
• Professional qualification certificates
• Secure electronic academic records
• Replacement degree certificates
• Older UK qualifications

However, each university uses a different verification process. Therefore, we review every document before confirming the route.

Why Choose Ginkgo Advisory?

Ginkgo Advisory manages the process from verification to final delivery.

Our service includes:

• Direct handling by a solicitor in England and Wales
• HEDD degree checks
• Alternative university verification routes
• Secure electronic document checks
• Enhanced authenticity certification
• Paper and electronic Apostille support
• A two-working-day express FCDO option
• Advice on separate and combined Apostilles
• International courier delivery
• Embassy legalisation support

Most importantly, we create a clear chain of evidence from the university’s official record to the final apostilled document.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an Apostille for a UK degree used in Spain?

You may need one if the Spanish institution asks you to authenticate qualifications issued outside the EU, EEA or Switzerland.

Must I apostille both my degree certificate and transcript?

The attached guidance requires authentication of both documents. Therefore, you should process both unless the institution confirms otherwise.

Can one Apostille cover both documents?

Sometimes, one Apostille can cover a combined bundle. However, you should first obtain written confirmation from the receiving institution.

Is it safer to obtain two separate Apostilles?

Yes. Separate Apostilles reduce the risk of rejection and allow you to use each document independently.

Do I need to send my original certificate to London?

Not always. We may use HEDD, Parchment, Digitary CORE or another official route to verify the documents remotely.

Will I need the original documents in Spain?

The attached guidance asks students to bring the original degree certificate and transcript to registration. The institution then returns the originals after checking them.

Can Spain accept a printed electronic degree certificate?

Yes, the attached guidance accepts printed electronic documents with a QR code or authentication code that staff can verify online.

Does the Apostille prove that my degree is genuine?

No. The university verification proves the academic award. The Apostille authenticates the solicitor’s signature.

What does enhanced solicitor certification mean?

It means that the solicitor confirms the authenticity checks completed, rather than only stating that a photocopy matches the document shown.

Do I need a Spanish translation?

Not under the attached institution’s rules if the documents appear in English. However, another Spanish authority may apply different requirements.

Can I complete the UK Apostille process in Barcelona?

No. You must complete the authentication process in the country where the university issued the documents.

How long does the process take?

The timing depends on the verification route. After verification and certification, we offer a two-working-day express FCDO option for eligible paper documents.

Can you deliver the documents to Spain?

Yes. We can arrange tracked international delivery to Spain or another destination.

Contact Ginkgo Advisory

To request a quotation, please send us:

• Your degree certificate
• Your academic transcript
• The Spanish institution’s requirements
• Details of any university verification platform
• Any QR code or authentication information
• Your registration deadline
• Your delivery city and postcode

We will review the documents and confirm:

• The verification route
• The solicitor certification process
• Whether to use separate or combined Apostilles
• The processing time
• The return delivery cost