We are often asked what the difference is between having a document notarized and obtaining an apostille. Both of these actions are distinct and need to be treated separately.
It is important to note that notarized documents can only be used within South Africa. On the other hand, an apostille can be used between countries, but it may be necessary to notarize a document before having it apostilled.
Document authenticity is verified by an apostille, while the identity of the signer is verified by notaries. This ensures that the signature is legitimate. Notaries stamp or seal the signature, informing the public that they witnessed it on the date of the signature. Apostilles are issued by Dirco in South Africa.
What Are the Reasons for Notarizing Documents?
Those who intend to work outside of South Africa and need their university records must first have them notarized by the university’s registrar, who will then apostille them by Dirco.
To be used abroad, a document must be attested, apostilled, authenticated, or notarized by a notary public. In countries where the Hague Convention does not apply, notarization is required instead.
In South Africa, you can typically have your legal documents notarized for free at your nearest South African police station. For more information, contact your local SAPS station.
It is quite challenging to obtain an apostille on your own.
DocAssist provides document apostille services that save you time and hassle. Documents can be apostilled for legal purposes by DocAssist. Upon receiving all the necessary documents and information, we send them to Dirco in Pretoria for apostilization. Once we receive them back, we send them to you wherever you are in the world via DHL. We are available to answer any questions you may have regarding legal documents. Please contact DocAssist today for more information or to get started.