Notary Public Services in Sydney: Everything You Need to Know
If you're moving overseas, buying property abroad, applying for dual citizenship, getting married overseas, or lodging documents with a foreign government, you've probably been told your documents need to be "notarised."
One of the most common questions we hear is:
"Can a JP sign my overseas documents?"
In mostcases, the answer is no.
If your documents are being used outside Australia, they will usually require certification by a Notary Public, not a Justice of the Peace.
At VRT Lawyers, we assist clients throughout Sydney with Notary Public services from our Mascot, Surry Hills and Gladesville offices, making the process straight forward and stress-free.
What does a Notary Public do?
A Notary Public is an experienced solicitor appointed by the Supreme Court of NSW who is authorised to verify identities, witness signatures, certify copies of documents and authenticate documents for international use.
Foreign governments, overseas universities, banks and courts often require documents tobear the official seal of a Notary Public before they will be accepted.
What documents commonly need notarisation?
We regularly assist clients with:
- Birth Certificates
- Marriage Certificates
- Death Certificates
- Divorce Orders
- Powers of Attorney
- Passport Copies
- Company Documents
- Property Documents
- Affidavits
- Consent forms for children travelling overseas
- Immigration and visa documents
If your document will be presented overseas, it's worth checking whether notarisation is required before submitting it.
What's the difference between a JP and a Notary Public?
This is probably the question we get asked the most.
A Justice of the Peace can witness signatures and certify documents for many purposes within Australia.
However, if your document will be used overseas, foreign authorities generally require certification by a Notary Public because the Notary's signature and seal are internationally recognised.
What is an Apostille?
Many clients are told they need an Apostille but aren't sure what it means.
An Apostille is not the same as notarisation.
A Notary Public verifies the document.
An Apostille is issued through the Australian Government (DFAT) to authenticate the notary's signature for countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention. Other countries may instead require authentication and embassy legalisation.
If you're unsure which process applies, we can advise you and assist with ensuring that your documents meet the requirements of the relevant jurisdiction.
What should I bring to my appointment?
Generally, you should bring:
1. Your original documents
2. Valid photo identification (passport or driver's licence)
3. Any instructions provided by the overseas authority
Do not sign the documents beforehand unless instructed, many documents must be signed in the presence of the Notary Public. It is prudent for us to review the documents prior to your appointment, so that we can ensure that we have what we need to not only identify you, yet ensure that your documents are in order, for the overseas jurisdiction.
Can foreign language documents be notarised?
Yes.
A Notary Public can generally notarise foreign language documents. In some circumstances, a certified translation may also be required depending on the country receiving the documents.
How long does notarisation take?
Simple notarisation appointments are usually completed within minutes once all documents are in order.
Where Apostille, authentication or embassy legalisation is also required, additional processing time may apply. We can also attend DFAT appointments on your behalf, to save you the time of attending to obtain the apostille.
Need a Notary Public in Sydney?
At VRT Lawyers, we assist individuals, families and businesses requiring documents for overseas use.
Appointments are available from our convenient offices in:
- Mascot
- Gladesville
- Surry Hills
Whether you're applying for overseas citizenship, purchasing property abroad, studying overseas, getting married internationally or dealing with foreign legal matters, our team can guide you through the notarisation process.
Need your documents notarised? Contact VRT Lawyers, today to arrange an appointment with our Notary Public.
