Helping You Understand the Legal Process
General Notary Information
What is a Notary Public?
A Notary Public is a lawyer appointed by the Chief Justice to witness signatures and certify documents for use outside Singapore.
Who can act as a Commissioner for Oaths?
Typically, qualified lawyers in Singapore who are authorized to administer oaths and statutory declarations locally.
What's the difference between a Notary Public and a Commissioner for Oaths?
Notaries certify documents for overseas use, while Commissioners handle local statutory declarations and affidavits.
What services does a Notary Public provide in Singapore?
Notaries provide services such as witnessing signatures, certifying true copies, and preparing notarial certificates.
Why do I need a Notary Public?
You may need notarisation to meet foreign legal or official requirements, such as verifying identity, certifying documents, or signing affidavits.
Can I make an appointment online?
Yes, you can make an appointment with us via email or phone. Or by submitting our request form.
What should I bring to my appointment?
Please bring the original documents, your ID (e.g., NRIC or passport), and any special instructions provided by the receiving authority.
Document Certification & Fees
What is a certified true copy?
A certified true copy is a photocopy that has been verified against the original and endorsed by a notary as a true representation.
When do I need a certified true copy?
Certified true copies are commonly required for immigration, banking, school admissions, or embassy submissions.
Can digital documents be certified as true copies?
Yes. You must present the original digital file (e.g., on a phone or laptop) during the appointment for verification.
Who is authorised to certify documents in Singapore?
Notaries Public and Commissioners for Oaths, depending on the intended use of the document.
How much does it cost to certify a true copy?
Fees typically range from SGD 5 to 20 per document, depending on the number of copies and complexity. Discounts may be offered for bulk certification.
Notarial Certificates & SAL Authentication
What is a notarial certificate?
It is an official certificate prepared by the notary to confirm that notarisation has taken place, often required for authentication by the SAL.
What is SAL authentication?
The Singapore Academy of Law (SAL) verifies notarised documents before they can be used internationally. This step is usually mandatory.
How much does SAL authentication cost?
Fees generally range from SGD 85.60 to 87.20 per document.
Do I need a notarial certificate for each document?
Yes. Each document that is notarised and sent to the SAL requires its own certificate.
How long does SAL authentication take?
Most documents are processed within 1 working day. Embassy legalisation timelines vary.
Can someone else submit to SAL on my behalf?
Yes. You may authorise a proxy to handle submissions.
What type of binding is required for SAL submission?
Documents should be bound with red ribbon and seal, following SAL’s format.
Apostille & Legalisation
What is an apostille?
An apostille is a certification used for countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention. Other countries may require consular legalisation.
Does SAL issue apostilles?
Yes. SAL provides apostilles for eligible documents submitted through a notary.
Do I need an apostille or legalisation?
This depends on the requirements of the country where the document will be used. Your notary can advise based on your destination.
Can I legalise documents for a specific embassy?
Yes. Documents can be prepared for embassies such as those of China, Malaysia, and Thailand, among others.
Remote Services & Other FAQs
Do you offer video witnessing?
We offer secure video witnessing for eligible documents, depending on legal allowances.
Can notarised translations be certified?
Yes, provided the translator affirms the accuracy of the translation.
Can I send someone to handle my notarisation?
Yes. A properly authorised representative may attend or collect documents on your behalf.
What is the turnaround time for most services?
Many services are completed on the same day or within one working day, depending on complexity and volume.
Tel: +65 6219 9027
Email: office@vickiheng.com
Appointment hours:
Monday – Friday: 9.30am – 5.30pm
Monday – Friday: 9.30am – 5.30pm
Address:
140 Upper Bukit Timah Road,
#03-08 Beauty World Plaza,
Singapore 588176
By MRT:
Beauty World MRT Station (DT5) – Exit A
Driving:
Park at Beauty World Plaza basement carpark