Apostilles - The International Importance
Where a document is signed in South Africa for use in another country, a short procedure can be followed in specific circumstances requiring the formality of an additional certificate, described as an “Apostille”, stemming from the Hague Convention of 1961 (to which South Africa is a signatory). It is a specialised certification method. A document bearing an Apostille is recognised in all member countries to the Convention, eliminating the need for additional certification.
We can provide apostilles for virtually all South African documents and certificates. The process of issuing an apostille certificate varies from one document to another. The key to our service is ensuring your document is presented to the High Court, DIRCO and Embassy with the appropriate seals and signatures to ensure the Apostille Certificate is issued without delay and that, ultimately your documents are accepted when presented to any interested parties outside of South Africa.
Dirco Apostille Service
The Dirco Apostille Certificate service assist you in legalising your South African documents for use overseas by means of an Apostille Certificate or a Certificate of Authentication. The Apostille Certificate is usually requested by foreign authorities and organisations to use the document for official purposes outside of South Africa.
Embassy or Consular Legalisation Service
Every embassy has their own specific requirements which vary based on the document that needs to be legalised. Getting documents legalised is something we specialise in, this is why we start by ensuring that the documents you’ve submitted are in correct order before being presented to the relevant embassy or consulate. Every embassy / consulate has their own turnaround time, however, we guarantee that everything is processed on an urgent basis on our end without any delay, resulting in a faster turnaround time, so your waiting period is significantly reduced.
We make it a point to keep our clients updated with the latest information regarding their legalisation process. At times, embassies may ask for additional supporting documents, in which case we get in touch promptly for our clients to send us the required supporting documents immediately. We are always available over the phone and through email so you can call to find out where your documents are in the process and how much longer it may take.
High Court Authentication/Apostille Service
After the document has been signed, stamped and sealed by the Notary, it can be taken to the High Court in the Notary’s area of practice. The High Court will then attach an Apostille Certificate, which serves to confirm the Notary’s signature.
