Notarizing a Document in Singapore
Notarization is a formal process where a Notary Public verifies the authenticity of a document or signature. In Singapore, it's a crucial step for many legal and official transactions.
Who Can Notarize?
Only a Notary Public, a lawyer appointed by the Government, can perform this service. They have the authority to certify the accuracy of document copies, witness signatures, and administer oaths.
The Notarization Process
Choose a Notary Public: You can find a Notary Public at a law firm or through online directories.
Prepare Your Document: Ensure the document is complete and accurate before the appointment.
Appointment: Most Notary Publics require an appointment.
Identification: You'll need to provide valid identification, such as a passport or NRIC.
Notarization: The Notary Public will verify your identity, examine the document, and affix their seal and signature.
Authentication: After notarization, the document usually needs to be authenticated by the Singapore Academy of Law (SAL). This process involves adding an Apostille to the Notarial Certificate.
Important Points to Remember
Authenticity: The Notary Public verifies the authenticity of the document or signature, not the content.
Authentication: After notarization, most documents require authentication from SAL.
Common Types of Documents Requiring Notarization in Singapore
While almost any document can be notarized, here are some of the most common types:
Personal Documents
Power of Attorney: Authorizes someone to act on your behalf.
Affidavits: A sworn statement of facts.
Statutory Declarations: A formal written statement made under oath.
Consent Forms: For medical treatments, child custody, etc.
Birth, Marriage, or Death Certificates: Often required for legal processes.
Business Documents
Contracts: Legal agreements between parties.
Deeds: Legal documents transferring ownership of property.
Commercial Invoices: For international trade.
Certificates of Origin: For international trade.
Company Resolutions: Official decisions made by a company's board.
Other Documents
Translations: To verify the accuracy of a translated document.
Student Documents: For educational purposes, such as transcripts or diplomas.
Immigration Documents: For visa applications or residency permits.
Note: The specific requirements for notarization can vary depending on the country where the document will be used. Always consult with the relevant authorities or a legal professional for accurate guidance.
The Notarization Process in Singapore
Notarization is a formal process that verifies the authenticity of a document or signature. Here’s a general overview of the process in Singapore:
1. Preparation
Document Readiness: Ensure your document is complete, accurate, and legible.
Identification: Prepare valid identification (e.g., passport, NRIC).
2. Appointment with a Notary Public
Locate a Notary: Find a Notary Public, usually a lawyer, who can provide notarization services.
Schedule Appointment: Most Notary Publics require appointments.
3. Verification of Identity
Identification Check: The Notary Public will verify your identity using the provided identification.
4. Document Examination
Document Review: The Notary Public will carefully examine the document to ensure it is complete and accurate.
5. Notarial Act
Signature and Seal: The Notary Public will affix their signature, seal, and date to the document.
Notarial Certificate: A separate certificate may be issued detailing the notarization.
6. Authentication (Optional)
For Overseas Use: If the document will be used outside Singapore, it usually requires authentication by the Singapore Academy of Law (SAL). This is done by adding an Apostille to the Notarial Certificate.
Authentication Process for Notarized Documents in Singapore
Authentication is the process of verifying the validity of a notarized document for use in a foreign country. In Singapore, this involves obtaining an Apostille.
The Apostille Process:
Notarization: The document must first be notarized by a Singapore Notary Public. This involves verifying the identity of the signatories and the authenticity of the document.
Application to the Singapore Academy of Law (SAL):
You will need to submit the notarized document along with an application form and the necessary fees to the SAL.
The SAL will verify the Notary Public's credentials and the authenticity of the notarization.
Issuance of Apostille:
Upon successful verification, the SAL will issue an Apostille, which is a standardized international certificate attached to the document.
The Apostille confirms the authority of the Notary Public and the authenticity of the seal.
Purpose of Authentication:
Legal Recognition: The Apostille ensures that the notarized document will be recognized as valid in the foreign country.
Streamlined Process: It simplifies the process of verifying the document's authenticity in the foreign country.
Important Points:
Specific Requirements: The specific requirements may vary depending on the country where the document will be used.
Timeframe
The authentication process can take several days, so plan accordingly.
Fees:
There are fees associated with both notarization and authentication.
Cost of Notarization
The cost varies depending on the Notary Public and the complexity of the document. Generally, it includes:
Notary Public's fee
Authentication fee (paid to SAL)
For more detailed information and specific guidelines, please visit:
Singapore Academy of Law website: https://legalisation.sal.sg/
Notary Singapore: https://www.bestar-asia.com/post/notary-singapore
Notarising a Document in Singapore
Legal Advice: If you're unsure about the need for notarization, notarization process or the specific requirements for your document, consult a lawyer.
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