What is the Process of Notarizing and Attesting of Certificates?

The process of notarizing and attesting certificates can vary depending on the country and the specific requirements needed for those certificates. Here is a broad breakdown of the stages that are usually taken:

1. Notarization: Start by getting your certificates notarized by a notary public. This involves presenting the original document to the notary, who will verify your identity and witness your signature (if necessary). The notary will then add their seal or stamp to the document.

2. Attestation: After notarization, the next step is usually attestation. This is the process of verifying the authenticity of the notarized document by the relevant authorities. The specific authorities involved may depend on the purpose and destination of the document. Typically, you’ll need to submit your notarized documents to the appropriate government department, such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the country where the certificate is issued. They will review the document and may add their own seal or stamp.

3. Legalization: In some cases, after attestation by the local authorities, you may need further legalization from the embassy or consulate of the destination country. This step involves submitting the attested document to the embassy or consulate, where they will verify the authenticity of the previous attestations and add their own seal or stamp.

It’s important to note that the specific process and requirements for notarization and attestation can vary significantly based on factors like the country where the document originated, the country where it will be used, and the type of document involved. It’s recommended to consult with the appropriate authorities or a legal professional to understand the precise steps and requirements for notarizing and attesting your specific certificates. Note that the certificate might be requested to be translated into a specific language where it is needed to be handed over.