Timelines To Get Apostille Documents

When dealing with international documents, an apostille is often required to certify their authenticity for use in foreign countries. If you’re in South Africa, understanding the apostille process can save you time and effort.

The timeframe for obtaining an apostille in South Africa depends on several factors:

  1. Document Type: Some documents, such as birth certificates or marriage certificates, may require verification from the Department of Home Affairs before they can be apostilled. This additional step can add days or even weeks to the process.
  2. Processing Time at DIRCO: The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) in Pretoria handles the apostille process. Typically, it takes 1 to 5 business days for DIRCO to issue an apostille, provided all your documents are in order.
  3. Courier Services: If you’re mailing your documents to DIRCO or using a third party, the time for courier delivery needs to be factored in, which can extend the process by several days.

In total, you should allow 7 to 10 business days for the entire process if no unexpected delays occur.

How Can I Speed Up My Apostille?

If you’re on a tight deadline, here are some tips to expedite the process:

  1. Verify Document Readiness: Ensure your documents are ready for apostille. For instance, if a document requires prior authentication (e.g., a notarized affidavit or verification by the Department of Home Affairs), complete this step beforehand.
  2. Visit DIRCO in Person: If you can travel to Pretoria, visiting DIRCO in person can save significant time compared to mailing your documents.
  3. Use a Professional Service: Engaging a reliable apostille service can streamline the process. These services are familiar with the requirements and can handle document submission and collection on your behalf.
  4. Choose Express Courier Options: If mailing your documents, opt for overnight or express courier services to minimize delays.

How Much Does It Cost to Apostille a Document in South Africa?

The costs associated with obtaining an apostille include:

  1. DIRCO Fees: Apostilles themselves are free of charge at DIRCO.
  2. Courier Costs: If you’re sending documents to DIRCO by mail, courier fees can range between R150 to R500, depending on the service and location.
  3. Professional Services Fees: If you hire an apostille service, expect to pay between R1,000 to R2,500 per document. These fees often include courier charges and assistance with document preparation.

Who Can Apostille Documents in South Africa?

The authority to issue apostilles in South Africa lies exclusively with DIRCO. However, some documents may need to be authenticated by other authorities before they can be apostilled:

  1. Notarised Documents: For affidavits or private agreements, a notary public must first notarize the document.
  2. Official Documents: Birth, marriage, or death certificates must be verified by the Department of Home Affairs if not issued in the new format.
  3. Educational Certificates: These often require authentication by the Department of Basic Education or the Department of Higher Education before being submitted to DIRCO.

While obtaining an apostille in South Africa can be a straightforward process, delays can occur if documents are not properly prepared or verified. Planning ahead and utilizing professional services can help you meet your deadlines with ease.

At Burger Huyser Attorneys, we understand the importance of timely and accurate documentation. If you need assistance with apostilling documents or navigating legal requirements, don’t hesitate to contact our expert team for guidance and support.

Contact Burger Huyser Attorneys, and book a consultation.

To speak to one of our experienced attorneys in South Africa for immediate assistance, contact us on the numbers below:

Randburg call 061 516 6878; Roodepoort call 061 516 0091; Sandton call 064 555 3358;  Pretoria call 064 548 4838;

Centurion call 061 516 7117; Alberton call 061 515 4699; Bedfordview call 061 536 3223

DISCLAIMER: Information provided in this article does not, and is not intended to constitute legal advice. READ MORE