In today’s globalised world, it is important to understand the differences between these two types of documents as they play a crucial role in various legal matters, both locally and internationally. In this article, I will explain the definition and purpose of apostille and notarised documents, how to obtain them in Singapore, including apostille Singapore services, and when to use each type of document. By the end of this guide, you will have a clear understanding of which document is needed for your specific situation
What is an Apostille Document and Why is it Important?
An apostille document is a type of certification that verifies the authenticity of a document. This process was established by the Hague Convention in 1961 and is recognized by over 100 countries, including Singapore.
How to Obtain an Apostille in Singapore
To obtain an apostille document in Singapore:
- You must first have your original document notarised by a notary public.
- Then, the document gets authenticated and apostilled by the Singapore Academy of Law.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) no longer certifies the document.
What does an Apostille Certificate do?
Apostille certificates serve as proof that the signature, seal, and stamp on the document are genuine. This is important for international transactions, as it ensures that the document is legally recognised by foreign countries. Without an apostille certificate, your document may not be accepted or recognised abroad.
Countries That Recognise Singapre Apostille Documents
Apostille documents are recognised by over 100 countries, including popular destinations for business and study such as the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and China. This means that if you are planning to use your document in one of these countries, you will only need to obtain an apostille certification as stated above instead of going through a lengthy legalisation process.
What is a Notarised Document and How Can I Get One?
A notarised document is a type of legal document that has been verified by a notary public. This process involves the notary verifying your identity, witnessing the signing of the document, and attesting to its authenticity by attaching their official seal and signature. Notarised documents are commonly used for local legal matters such as property transactions or adoption proceedings.
How to Get a Document Notarised in Singapore
To get a document notarised in Singapore, you can go to any notary public office. They will verify your identity and witness the signing of the document before adding their official seal and signature. It is important to note that notarisation does not certify the content of the document, only its authenticity. Subsequently the document gets authenticated and Apostille by the Singapore Academy of Law.
Countries That Recognise Notarised Documents
Notarised documents are recognised by most countries, but the acceptance of these documents may vary. Some countries may require further legalisation or translation before accepting a notarised document. It is always best to check with the relevant authority in the country where you intend to use the document.
Key Differences Between Apostille and Notarised Documents
Now that we have defined both types of documents, let’s dive deeper into their key differences.
Apostille Singapore Process
The main difference between apostille and notarised documents is the legalisation process. For apostille documents, the process involves notarisation followed by certification by the Singapore Academy of Law.
Acceptance by Foreign Countries
Apostille documents are recognised and accepted by over 100 countries, making them the preferred choice for international business transactions or studying abroad. Notarised documents, on the other hand, may need further legalisation or translation depending on the country’s requirements.
Conclusion
As a notary public, I have had clients who mistakenly thought that a notarised document was enough for their business transactions overseas. This led to delays and complications in their dealings as the country they were dealing with required an apostille certification. It is crucial for individuals and business owners to understand the differences between these two types of documents and take the necessary steps to obtain the correct one for their specific situation.
So, it is always recommended to do proper research and seek professional advice before proceeding with any legal document. Remember, it is better to be safe than sorry. Always double check the requirements of the country you are dealing with and make sure you have the correct type of document before proceeding. This will save you time, money and avoid potential legal issues in the long run. Now that you have a clear understanding of apostille and notarised documents, go forth and get your documents certified for use abroad with confidence!
Disclaimer: This guide is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Please consult with a lawyer for specific legal guidance related to your individual circumstances.