What Steps Are Necessary in Obtaining an Apostille?

If you’re planning to use a South African document in a foreign country, chances are you’ll need an apostille to certify its authenticity. The apostille process ensures your document is legally recognized in countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention.

Obtaining an apostille involves several steps. Here’s how the process works:

1. Identify the Type of Document

  • Government-Issued Documents: These include birth certificates, marriage certificates, police clearance certificates, and academic qualifications issued by public institutions.
  • Private Documents: These include affidavits, contracts, and powers of attorney. Private documents must first be notarized by a notary public.

2. Prepare the Document

Ensure your document is properly signed and stamped by the relevant authority. For example:

  • A police clearance certificate must be issued by the South African Police Service (SAPS).
  • Academic qualifications must be verified by the institution and certified by the Department of Higher Education, if applicable.

3. Submit to the Relevant Authority

  • DIRCO (Department of International Relations and Cooperation): Government-issued documents are authenticated by DIRCO in Pretoria.
  • High Court: Private documents must first be notarized by a notary public and then submitted to the High Court for apostille certification.

4. Pay the Fees

Some authorities may charge a processing fee for apostille certification. Ensure you have the necessary payment ready to avoid delays.

5. Collect Your Apostilled Document

Once the process is complete, you will receive your document with an apostille certificate attached, confirming its authenticity for international use.

How is the Apostille Done?

The process of apostilling a document involves:

  1. Verification of the Document: The issuing authority checks the document’s authenticity.
  2. Affixing the Apostille Certificate: Once verified, an apostille certificate is attached to the document. This certificate includes details such as:
    • The country of origin
    • The issuing authority’s seal or stamp
    • The signature of the authorized officer
  3. Final Check: The completed document is reviewed to ensure all information is correct and complies with international standards.

Why Work with Burger Huyser Attorneys?

Navigating the apostille process can be time-consuming and complicated, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the requirements. At Burger Huyser Attorneys, we offer:

  • Expert guidance on which documents require an apostille.
  • Assistance with notarization and submission to DIRCO or the High Court.
  • A seamless process to ensure your documents are authenticated efficiently.

Let us handle the complexities of the apostille process so you can focus on what matters most. Contact us today to learn more about our apostille services.

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