In which country will the documents be used?

In order to export goods (and services) outside the EU, commercial documents are often required. These documents must pass through various authorities before the goods or services can enter the country of destination.

Authorities

• The court (source of image: palace of justice, © ANP): in the case of documents signed by the notary, his/her signature must be legalised by the Dutch court. In the case of countries in the Apostille Treaty, the Dutch court can perform a full legalisation, making a visit to the relevant country’s embassy or consulate unnecessary.
• The Ministry of Foreign Affairs: all export and notarial documents (except for EU countries and countries in the Apostille Treaty) must be legalised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
• Embassies and/or consulates: before the goods/services can be transported to the country of destination, the country’s ambassador or consul must legalise the documents.

Different documents

• Certificate of origin: the name says it all; this document contains data about the origin of goods.
• Invoice: a commercial invoice that states the quantities and value of goods.
• Health certificate: a certificate containing a statement about the safety of food and/or cosmetics. This document is often required when exporting (animal) food and cosmetics.