Apostille – The Word Every Emigrant Must Know

An apostille confirms a German document's authenticity for use abroad. Without it, Cypriot authorities won't accept your German certificates. Simple to obtain in Germany. From Cyprus via the embassy: weeks to months. Essential to do before moving.

Which Documents Need an Apostille?

Essential: birth certificates (all family members), marriage certificate, police clearance, degree certificates. Optional but recommended: death certificates, baptism certificates, children's birth certificates. Better one too many than one too few – €20 per document.

This was exactly our experience: Better one too many than one too few – €20 per document. Getting the Apostille in Germany Regional court (Landgericht) of your district. €20/document.

– Newcomer from Bonn, in Nicosia since 2022

Getting the Apostille in Germany

Regional court (Landgericht) of your district. €20/document. Processing: same day in person, 1-3 weeks by post. Get the apostille on the original document, not a copy.

If You Need It from Cyprus

German Embassy Nicosia: 6-12 weeks. Authorized person in Germany with power of attorney: faster. Online services: €50-100/document. CMC coordinates this regularly for clients.

Translation and Certification

Certified translation into English/Greek needed. PIO-authorized translator. €30-60/page, 3-7 business days. Order: original → apostille in Germany → certified translation in Cyprus.

Apostille and Legalization

Locations: Nicosia
Topics: Apostille – The Word Every Emigrant Must Know, Which Documents Need an Apostille?, Getting the Apostille in Germany

CMC Practical Tip

Better one too many than one too few – €20 per document.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does an apostille cost?

€20/document at German regional court. Plus €10-15 for a fresh certificate from the registry office.

How long does it take?

In person at court: often same day. By post: 1-3 weeks. From Cyprus via embassy: 6-12 weeks.

Does each family member need their own?

Yes – each person needs their own apostilled birth certificate.

What if my police clearance has expired?

Most authorities require clearance no older than 6 months. Order fresh from BfJ before moving – online possible.

How CMC Supports You

At CMC Certus Management Consultants, we are here for you – not only for tax and legal questions, but also for all practical topics of everyday life in Cyprus. Our team in Larnaca and Pafos knows the local conditions first-hand.

As your local contact, we handle: company formation and management, tax advisory and Non-Dom applications, ongoing bookkeeping and tax returns, support with authorities, and referrals to estate agents, lawyers, doctors and tradespeople.

Further Reading