Not Sure Where to Begin? You’re Not Alone
If you’re sending official paperwork abroad — like birth certificates, powers of attorney, or academic records — chances are you’ll need them legalized. That’s where apostille documents come in. But if you’ve never done this before, the process can feel confusing. Don’t worry — here’s a step-by-step guide made for South Africans just like you.
What Is an Apostille and Why Do You Need It?
An apostille is a certificate that proves a South African document is valid and recognized internationally, in countries that are part of the Hague Convention. Without this stamp, your documents may not be accepted overseas — even if they’re genuine. That’s why getting your apostille documents sorted is critical for anything from foreign work permits to visa applications.
Step 1: Know Which Documents Can Be Apostilled
Not every document qualifies for apostille certification. Typically, you can legalize:
- Birth, marriage, and death certificates
- Academic transcripts and degrees
- Police clearance certificates
- Sworn affidavits and notarial acts
- Power of attorney documents
If you’re not sure whether your document qualifies, a service like Doc Assist can help you verify before you waste time.
Step 2: Get Your Documents Certified Properly
Before applying for apostille status, many documents need to be notarized or signed by a recognized public authority. That could be a notary public, magistrate, or relevant government department. For example, university transcripts must be verified by the Department of Higher Education before they can become apostille documents.
Step 3: Submit to DIRCO or High Court
In South Africa, apostilles are issued by two main authorities:
- DIRCO (Department of International Relations and Cooperation) – mostly for official documents like police clearances
- High Court (Registrar’s Office) – usually for notarized documents or affidavits
Which one you choose depends on the type of document you’re legalizing. Processing times and procedures differ, so knowing the right path matters.
Step 4: Plan for Time and Cost
Apostille processing through DIRCO can take 4 to 6 weeks (or longer), while the High Court route can be faster — sometimes just a few days. However, long queues, incorrect submissions, and courier delays are common. If you’re working with a tight deadline, getting help with your apostille documents can save you major stress.
Let Doc Assist Handle the Hard Parts
Getting documents apostilled shouldn’t feel like pulling teeth. Whether you’re applying for work overseas or moving abroad permanently, Doc Assist will guide you through the entire process — from document prep to delivery. We know what DIRCO and the High Court expect. We’ll handle the admin, check for errors, and make sure your apostille documents are done right the first time. Talk to Doc Assist today and make your global move a little smoother.