The short answer
Both routes prove a foreign document is genuine. Legalised means a chain: notary, embassy, foreign ministry. Apostilled means one certificate from one competent authority. Bangladesh accepts apostilles since 30 March 2025. For DPDT trademark, patent and design filings, bare notarisation is generally not enough.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Legalised | Apostilled |
|---|---|---|
| Applies between | Non-Hague countries, or where an objection exists | Hague member countries |
| Offices | Notary, embassy, foreign ministry | Notary and one competent authority |
| Embassy step | Required | Not required |
| Typical time | Often 3 to 6 weeks including courier | Often 3 to 10 business days |
| Cost | Higher, several fees | Lower |
| Accepted in Bangladesh | Yes | Yes, since 30 March 2025 |
| Main risk | Delay | Objection by the other country |
When you still need legalisation
- The issuing country is not a Hague member
- The DPDT or a court asks for embassy attestation
- The issuing country has objected to Bangladesh's accession
- Some contested ownership documents may need the fuller chain
Objecting countries reported: Germany, France, Netherlands, Denmark, Austria, Finland, Belgium, Czech Republic, Estonia, Lithuania, Greece, Argentina. Confirm on the HCCH status table.
What it means for IP filings
- Trademark: assignments, power of attorney, affidavits, licences and name or address change documents
- Patent and design: assignments, declarations and priority-related documents
- An apostille authenticates who signed, not whether the content is valid
Practical steps: how to legalise or apostille.
Legalised vs apostilled questions
What is the difference?
A legalised document passes through several offices; an apostille is a single standard certificate.
Which does the DPDT accept?
Both. Apostille is faster where available.
Is an apostille proof the content is true?
No. It confirms the signature, signer's authority and seal.
Need documents ready for Bangladesh?
SUPREMEiP® tells you the right route for your country and files the documents at the DPDT. Send us your document list.
