An Apostille Certificate is a specialised form of authentication attached to your original documents to verify their legitimacy. Apostilled documents are recognised as lawful documents in member countries of the Hague Convention (https://www.hcch.net/en/states/hcch-members). This process validates the details of the documents and enables you to use it in these countries. An example of where an apostille is required, is the court order that you need to obtain to relocate to another country where minor children are involved (https://cawood.co.za/services/family-law)
Who can Apostille Documents?
The High Court of South Africa has the power to apostille documents and one can appoint a Notary Public to attend to the entire process for you, providing guidance along the way and taking care of all the paperwork. In order for a notary to assist with this process the original document is required and in the event that a document needs to be signed, it must be signed in the presence of the Notary.
Which Documents can be Apostilled?
Each document that is validated has to receive a separate apostille certificate.
Documents that can be apostilled include:
- Birth certificates – Including unabridged birth certificates
- Death certificates
- Marriage certificates
- Copy of Passport
- Police clearance certificates
- Qualifications/Degrees/Diplomas/Matric certificates
- Health certificates
- Powers of Attorney
- Letter of No Impediment
- TEFL certificates
- Travel consent letters
- Foreign degrees
- Certain Contracts
- Court Orders
- Certificates of Good Standing
- Single Status Affidavit
How Long Does it Take to Apostille Documents?
The time it takes to apostille documents varies greatly, but it could take months if you don’t have assistance. A Notary Public that has experience with Apostille Certificates can have your documents apostilled in a matter of days.