Quick Overview
To notarise a document in South Africa, you need to visit a qualified Notary Public with your ID and the document to be notarised. The notary will verify your identity, witness your signature, and authenticate the document with their official seal. Most appointments take 15-30 minutes.
What Is a Notary Public?
A Notary Public in South Africa is a specially qualified attorney who has been admitted by the High Court to perform notarial services. Unlike a Commissioner of Oaths (who can only witness signatures), a Notary Public can:
- Authenticate documents for international use
- Prepare and attest powers of attorney
- Draft and register antenuptial contracts
- Certify copies for international use
- Administer oaths and affirmations
Notary vs Commissioner of Oaths
A Commissioner of Oaths can witness simple documents like affidavits for local use. A Notary Public is required for documents going abroad or needing High Court apostille.
Documents That Need Notarisation
Common documents requiring notarisation include:
Powers of Attorney
General or special powers of attorney for legal, financial, or property matters
Affidavits
Sworn statements for immigration, legal proceedings, or official purposes
Consent Letters
Parental consent for child travel, medical procedures, or school enrollment
Antenuptial Contracts
Marriage contracts to determine property rights (must be notarised and registered)
Certified Copies
Copies certified for international use (different from simple certification)
Commercial Contracts
Business agreements, sale of shares, and company resolutions
Step-by-Step: Getting a Document Notarised
Gather Your Documents
Collect the document to be notarised (do NOT sign it yet if signature witnessing is required), your valid ID document, and any supporting documents.
- Original ID: Smart ID card, passport, or driver's licence
- The document(s) to be notarised
- Supporting documents if applicable
Contact a Notary Public
Find a qualified notary and book an appointment. When booking, explain what document you need notarised so they can prepare.
Tip: Many notaries offer mobile services - they can come to your home or office if you cannot visit them.
Attend the Appointment
Present your documents and ID to the notary. Important: Do NOT sign the document before meeting the notary if they need to witness your signature.
Notary Authenticates the Document
The notary will:
- Verify your identity
- Confirm you understand the document
- Witness your signature (if required)
- Affix their notarial seal and signature
- Register the document if required (e.g., antenuptial contracts)
Receive Your Notarised Document
Your document is now officially notarised. If you need it for international use, the next step is usually a High Court apostille.
What to Expect: Timeframes
| Service | Typical Time |
|---|---|
| Standard notarisation (you have the document) | 15-30 minutes |
| Notary prepares document (power of attorney, affidavit) | 30-60 minutes |
| Antenuptial contract (drafting + registration) | 2-5 days |
After Notarisation: Need an Apostille?
If your notarised document needs to be used in another country, you'll likely need a High Court apostille. This authenticates the notary's signature for international recognition.
High Court apostille processing takes approximately 3 business days. We can handle both the notarisation and apostille process for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sign the document before meeting the notary?
It depends. If the notary needs to witness your signature (like for a power of attorney or affidavit), do NOT sign beforehand. If the document is already signed and just needs certification, that's usually fine. When in doubt, ask the notary first.
Can someone else sign on my behalf?
Generally, no. The person signing must appear before the notary in person. However, if you've already granted someone power of attorney to act on your behalf, they may be able to sign certain documents for you.
Do you offer mobile notary services?
Yes! We offer mobile notary services throughout Johannesburg, Sandton, Pretoria, and greater Gauteng. We can visit your home, office, hospital, or any convenient location.
How long is a notarised document valid?
The notarisation itself doesn't expire. However, some receiving institutions (like embassies or immigration offices) may require documents notarised within a certain timeframe - often 3-6 months. Check with the receiving institution for their requirements.
Need Documents Notarised?
We offer fast, professional notary services in Johannesburg and throughout Gauteng - including mobile notary.