Ready to Legalize Your Documents? Start Here
You’ve probably heard the term “apostille” if you’re planning to work, study, get married, or do business overseas. But where do you actually go to get your documents apostilled in South Africa? If you’ve never done it before, it can be confusing — but don’t worry. This guide breaks down exactly where to go, what to bring, and how to make sure your apostille documents are accepted internationally.
What Is an Apostille and Why Is It Important?
An apostille is an official stamp or certificate that confirms a South African document is valid in another country that follows the Hague Convention. You’ll need it for things like birth certificates, degrees, police clearances, or power of attorney documents. Without this stamp, your documents may be rejected overseas — even if they’re 100% authentic.
Where Can You Get an Apostille in South Africa?
There are two main authorities that issue apostille stamps in South Africa:
- DIRCO – The Department of International Relations and Cooperation, based in Pretoria.
- The High Court – Specifically, the Registrar’s Office in certain High Court branches across the country.
Which one you use depends on the type of document you’re submitting. For example, police clearances go to DIRCO, while notarized legal papers often go to the High Court.
When Should You Go to the High Court Instead of DIRCO?
Use the High Court when:
- Your document has been notarized by a notary public.
- You’ve signed an affidavit or contract that needs legal recognition.
- You’re submitting documents with a commissioner of oaths signature.
Use DIRCO when:
- You’re legalizing a Home Affairs document (e.g., birth certificate, marriage certificate).
- You have a police clearance certificate from SAPS.
- Your academic transcripts have been verified by the Department of Education.
Understanding this split is essential for smooth processing of your apostille documents.
Do You Need to Be in Pretoria to Apostille a Document?
Not at all. You can courier your documents to DIRCO or the relevant High Court registrar. However, couriering adds cost, and without experience, it’s easy to make a mistake that causes delays. That’s why many people choose document services like Doc Assist to handle the process on their behalf — especially when they’re in a rush or unsure which authority to use.
What If You Live Outside South Africa?
If you’re currently living abroad and need your South African documents apostilled, you still have options. You can:
- Use a trusted third-party in South Africa to handle it for you
- Request assistance through a South African consulate (limited services)
- Have your documents couriered home and legalized on your behalf
Whether you’re dealing with apostille documents for immigration, marriage, or foreign study, Doc Assist can coordinate everything remotely — no matter where you are in the world.
Don’t Know Where to Start? Doc Assist Does.
Still unsure which route to take — DIRCO or High Court? Not sure if your documents need notarization first? Don’t stress. At Doc Assist, we’ve helped thousands of South Africans get their apostille documents processed fast, correctly, and without all the back-and-forth. We’ll handle the paperwork, guide you step by step, and make sure your documents are ready for the world. Talk to Doc Assist today and let’s get your documents sorted.