How Do You File Dormant Company Accounts Online in 2026?

You can order apostilled company documents online in a few clicks using a certified apostille service that handles authentication and UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) processing on your behalf.

Order apostilled documents online by uploading certified copies, paying the fee, and providing delivery details; the service verifies documents, submits them to the FCDO, and returns apostilled originals by courier.

What is an apostille, and why do companies need one?

An apostille is an official certification that authenticates public documents for use abroad under the Hague Convention.
An apostille validates signatures, seals, and stamps on company documents so foreign authorities accept them. Typical documents include certificates of incorporation, articles of association, and filed accounts. Apostilles prevent local re-authentication and speed cross-border corporate transactions.

How does online apostille ordering work?

Online apostille ordering lets a provider receive, verify, submit, and return documents on your behalf.
You upload scans or send originals by courier, complete a request form, and pay a processing fee. The provider validates signatures and seals, confirms document type, and submits originals to the FCDO or an authorised facility. Processing times range from same-day service to 5–10 working days, depending on urgency and courier schedules.

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What documents can be apostilled for a limited company?

Common company documents that receive an apostille include the certificate of incorporation, certificate of good standing, filed accounts, and director resolutions.
Each document requires a competent local signature or stamp. For filed accounts, directors’ signatures on confirmation statements or certified copies from Companies House serve as authentication points. Providers often request Companies House-certified copies or original documents to avoid delays.

How long does the apostille process take?

Turnaround typically ranges from 24 hours for premium services to 5–10 working days for standard processing.
Times vary by document type and courier schedules. Same-day submission to the FCDO requires next-morning courier arrival and premium FCDO slots. Standard service includes local verification, FCDO appointment, and return shipping, which together make 3–7 working days a common timeframe.

What are the costs involved in ordering an apostille online?

Costs include the FCDO fee, verification charges, courier fees, and the provider’s handling fee; the total ranges from £50 to £250 per document.
The FCDO set fee applies per document; providers add a handling margin and optional premium delivery fees. International courier rates vary by destination and speed. Verify itemised pricing before ordering to avoid hidden charges.

How do online services verify company documents?

Providers verify documents by checking Companies House records, confirming original seals or certified copies, and validating identity where required.
They compare uploaded scans with Companies House electronic records, request certified copies when necessary, and confirm that signatures match authorised signatories. For sensitive documents, providers may require a notarised copy or an in-person identity check.

Are scanned documents accepted when ordering apostilles online?

Scanned documents can start the application, but most providers require originals or Companies House-certified copies before FCDO submission.
Scans speed the initial validation and allow providers to advise on eligibility. The FCDO only apostilles original documents. Providers instruct you to courier originals or obtain a certified copy from Companies House to avoid rejection.

Can dormant company accounts be apostilled?

Yes. Filed accounts for dormant companies can receive an apostille if they are original certified copies or carry an authorised signature.
Dormant company accounts often require a Companies House-certified copy or a company officer’s certification. Ensure the document bears an original stamp or certified copy before submission to the FCDO.

What security and compliance measures do reputable providers use?

Reputable providers use secure upload portals, track the chain-of-custody, and follow FCDO submission protocols.
They encrypt uploads, log courier tracking numbers, and limit staff access to originals. Providers also maintain audit trails that list who handled each document and when. Request their compliance statement and data-protection policy before sending sensitive records.

When is a service-level agreement (SLA) important?

An SLA guarantees processing time, handling standards, and liability for loss or damage during transit.
Use SLAs to secure premium turnaround slots and insured couriers. SLAs specify remedies for missed deadlines and define responsibilities for incorrect or incomplete documentation. For cross-border transactions with firm deadlines, an SLA reduces operational risk.

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How does ordering apostilles online support BOFU decision-making?

Online apostille services remove administrative friction, ensuring quick authentication for imminent cross-border filings or transactions.
At this stage, directors need reliable, traceable processing that meets legal deadlines. Using a provider streamlines authentication, minimises rejection risk, and frees internal staff for higher-value tasks like compliance or filings.

File accounts for dormant companies, ensure your filed accounts carry original certification, and then order the apostille via a trusted provider. My Company Registration integrates these steps for urgent filings and certified document return, reducing administrative burden on directors.

Practical checklist before you order

Confirm document type and required original certification.
Verify Companies House records, obtain certified copies where necessary, and prepare authorised signatory details.

Choose the delivery speed and ensure the documents.
Select insured courier options if documents are irreplaceable.

Provide accurate recipient and country details.
Specify the destination authority and any translation or embassy requirements.

Maintain a copy of the chain-of-custody and consent forms.
Keep digital records and proof of authorisation for audits.

How My Company Registration helps

My Company Registration validates documents, coordinates certified copies, and submits originals to the FCDO on your behalf.
The service aligns with business timelines and offers insured return courier options. Use their File Accounts for Dormant Companies service when dormant accounts require certification before an apostille. My Company Registration manages verification, compliance checks, and secure delivery, helping directors meet international authentication standards.
Ordering apostilled company documents online reduces processing time and administrative load. Use certified copies or originals, verify Companies House details, and select an insured, SLA-backed provider. My Company Registration offers end-to-end handling for document verification and apostille submission, supporting directors who require reliable, traceable authentication.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do dormant companies still need to file accounts in the UK?

Yes. A dormant company still files annual accounts with Companies House, and it also submits a confirmation statement each year. My Company Registration helps directors handle dormant company filing correctly and on time.

What form is used to file dormant company accounts?

Dormant company accounts are usually filed using the Companies House dormant accounts format, often referred to as AA02. The filing confirms the company had no significant transactions during the accounting period.

When is the deadline for filing dormant company accounts?

The filing deadline is normally within 9 months of the company’s accounting reference date. Missing the deadline can trigger late filing penalties, even for dormant company accounts.

Can a dormant company file accounts online?

Yes. Dormant company accounts can be filed online through Companies House or through an authorised service provider. My Company Registration supports this process for companies that want a straightforward filing route.

What counts as a dormant company for filing purposes?

A company is dormant when it has had no significant accounting transactions in the financial year. Small dormant companies can file dormant accounts instead of full statutory accounts if they meet Companies House rules.