Apostille and Legalisation Processing Times in Australia

By notaryadmin | 15th July 2025 | Categories: Apostille, DFAT, Legalisation, Notary, Uncategorised

Apostille and Legalisation Processing Times in Australia
The processing times for Apostille and legalisation services in Australia can vary depending on the type of document and the workload of the issuing authority. It is advisable to plan ahead and submit your documents well in advance to ensure timely processing. For specific processing times and requirements, it is recommended to consult the relevant authorities or official websites for up-to-date information.
Understanding the Timeline
The time it takes to Apostille or legalise documents in Australia varies depending on the method of submission and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s (DFAT) processing times.
DFAT Processing Times
  • Apostille Processing Time: 3 business days after receipt of the document
Appointment Wait Times
  • Sydney: 6 weeks
  • Melbourne: 3 weeks
  • Brisbane: 3 weeks
Using a Service Provider
  • Same-day Lodgement: Documents received before 10am or 2pm AEST are lodged with DFAT the same day
  • Turnaround Time: 1-2 weeks, depending on the service provider and DFAT’s processing time
  • Express Post Delivery: Free express post delivery within Australia, with optional international delivery via DHL
Tips for a Smooth Process
  • Plan ahead to account for varying processing times
  • Consider using a reputable service provider such as Notary Online to streamline the process and minimise delays
  • Ensure accurate preparation of documents and completion of request forms to avoid incomplete requests
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