Overview
An affidavit is a written sworn statement that you sign under oath. When you need to use an affidavit abroad, it must be notarised by a South African Notary Public and then apostilled through the High Court.
Quick Facts
- Apostille Type: High Court (notarised document)
- Processing Time: ~3 business days (apostille only)
- Prerequisite: Must be notarised (not just commissioned)
- Total Time: ~4-5 business days including notarisation
Commissioner vs Notary: What's the Difference?
This is a common point of confusion:
Commissioner of Oaths
Police officers, lawyers, and other designated persons can commission affidavits for local use only. These CANNOT be apostilled.
Notary Public
A specially qualified attorney who can notarise documents for international use. Only notarised affidavits can be apostilled.
Important
If you already have an affidavit signed before a Commissioner of Oaths (like at SAPS), it cannot be apostilled. You'll need to re-do the affidavit before a Notary Public.
Common Types of Affidavits
- Affidavit of support - Sponsor declarations for visa applications
- Affidavit of single status - Confirming you're not married
- Affidavit of name change - Explaining discrepancies in documents
- Affidavit of relationship - Confirming family relationships
- Affidavit of residence - Confirming where you live
- General sworn statement - Various declarations as required
The Process
Draft the Affidavit
Prepare your affidavit or let us draft it based on your requirements. Ensure it meets the destination country's requirements.
Notarisation
Sign the affidavit under oath before our Notary Public with your valid ID. This is a same-day service.
High Court Submission
The notarised affidavit is submitted to the High Court for apostille.
Collection & Delivery
Your apostilled affidavit is collected and delivered to you.
Common Uses
- Visa applications - Support letters, sponsor declarations
- Marriage abroad - Single status declarations
- Legal proceedings - Evidence in foreign courts
- Immigration applications - Various declarations
- Business purposes - Corporate declarations
- University applications - Verification statements
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apostille an affidavit from SAPS?
No. Affidavits signed before a Commissioner of Oaths (including SAPS) cannot be apostilled. For international use, the affidavit must be notarised by a Notary Public.
How long does an affidavit apostille take?
Notarisation is same-day. High Court apostille takes approximately 3 business days. Total: about 4-5 business days.
What do I need to bring?
Bring your original valid ID (Smart ID, passport, or driver's licence) and the content of what you want to declare. If you've drafted the affidavit, bring it unsigned.
Can you draft the affidavit for me?
Yes. Our notary can draft affidavits according to your requirements. Let us know what you need to declare and for what purpose, and we'll prepare it.
Do you offer mobile notary services?
Yes! We offer mobile notary services throughout Johannesburg, Sandton, Pretoria, and greater Gauteng. We can come to your home or office.