Notarization and Legalization

Notarization and legalization are common ways to proof of documents and recognize foreign law systems. This procedure in international commercial and civil legal matters as usual, and the power to enforce document verification is generally exercised by a higher-level authority.

International notarization refers to the second-level certification issued by the national government agencies, and the certification of the original certification with stamped or labeled seal. Generally, the notarized documents by Notary Public can be used internationally and in a short period of progressing time.

There is a similar verification process but embassy legalization by the consular office is required.  This means the document must be certified twice before it can have a legal effect in the receiving country.

The legalization of consulate certification by the embassy can only be used in the country where it is handled, such as the Italian Embassy in Hong Kong, which can be used in Italy only. The requirements for legalization for each embassy are different and take a long time to process compared with notarization.

Basically, Notarization is required to verify identity or the reliability of a document: – 

• To certify documents proving identity such as passports, identity cards, marriage certificate, birth certificate etc
• To attest or witness a signature
• To witness Powers of Attorney
• When dealing with travel documentation or work permits
• When setting up a company overseas
• When dealing with international business transactions

If you have any questions about the procedure or services of notarization and legalization, please do not hesitate to contact us for assistance.