Apostille and notarization are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they actually refer to two different processes. The main difference between the two is the type of documents they apply to and the authority that issues them.

 

A notarized document is a document that has been certified by a notary public. This means that the notary public has verified the identity of the person signing the document and has witnessed the signing. Notarization is commonly used for legal documents such as wills, power of attorney, and affidavits.

 

On the other hand, an apostille is a certification that is used for documents that are intended for use in another country. It is a legal way of certifying the authenticity of a document that is required for use in a foreign country. An apostille is issued by a government authority, such as Dirco. It certifies that the signature on the document is genuine and that the document is a true and accurate representation of the original.

 

The process of getting a document notarized is fairly straightforward. You simply need to find a notary public, present your document, and have them witness and certify the signing. However, the process of getting an apostille is a bit more complex. In South Africa, you will need to contact the Dirco. They will then provide you with the necessary forms and instructions for obtaining an apostille. Take note: You need to use a document agent like Doc Assist to apply for an Apostille.

 

So which one do you need? If you are dealing with legal documents that are only going to be used in South Africa, then notarization is sufficient. However, if you are dealing with documents that need to be used in another country, then an apostille is required.

 

At Doc Assist, we specialize in obtaining apostilles for our clients. Our team of experts has years of experience in navigating the complex process of obtaining apostilles and can help you get your documents certified quickly and efficiently. We handle the entire process on your behalf, from preparing your documents to submitting them to the appropriate authorities. We provide updates at every step of the way, so you can rest assured that your documents are in good hands.

 

In conclusion, while both notarization and apostille serve to certify the authenticity of documents, they are used for different purposes. Notarization is used for legal documents within South Africa, while apostilles are used for documents intended for use in foreign countries. At Doc Assist, we can help you obtain the necessary certification for your documents, saving you time and hassle. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you with your document certification needs.

 

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