Whether you are opening a bank account, applying for a visa, or registering at an overseas university, chances are you have been asked to provide a “certified copy.” But who exactly is authorised to certify documents in South Africa — and does it matter who does it? The short answer: it depends on what the document is for.
Who Is Authorised to Certify Documents?
Commissioners of Oaths
The following are designated commissioners of oaths:
- SAPS officers — any police officer at a police station (most commonly used)
- Practising attorneys and candidate attorneys
- Chartered accountants and auditors
- Bank managers and postmasters
- Magistrates and justices of the peace
- School principals
- Ministers of religion
- Other designated persons — certain municipal officials, ambassadors, consular officers
A commissioner compares the copy to the original, stamps, signs, and dates it as a “true copy of the original.”
Notaries Public
A notary public is an attorney with additional High Court admission. When a notary notarises a copy, they:
- Verify identity of the person presenting the document
- Compare copy to original
- Attach a formal notarial certificate with signature, stamp, and embossed seal
- Record the act in their official protocol
Notarised copies carry significantly more legal weight and are recognised internationally, whereas commissioner certifications generally are not.
Certified Copy vs Notarised Copy
Certified Copy (Commissioner of Oaths)
- Stamped and signed by a commissioner
- Accepted for most domestic purposes
- Generally not accepted internationally
- Usually free or very low cost
Notarised Copy (Notary Public)
- Includes notarial certificate, signature, stamp, and High Court seal
- Accepted domestically and internationally
- Required before obtaining an apostille
- Professional fee applies
Key takeaway: If the document stays in South Africa, a commissioner is usually sufficient. If it crosses a border, you need a notary public. Read more on our certified and notarised copies page.
Quick Reference Table
| Purpose | Commissioner | Notary Public |
|---|---|---|
| SARS submission | Yes | Not required |
| Home Affairs application | Yes | Not required |
| SA bank account opening | Yes | Not required |
| SA university application | Yes | Not required |
| Embassy visa application | Usually not accepted | Required |
| DIRCO apostille | Not accepted | Required |
| Overseas university | Usually not accepted | Required |
| Foreign business registration | Usually not accepted | Required |
| Immigration application | Usually not accepted | Required |
Rule of thumb: If the document is going to any foreign government, embassy, or overseas institution, have it notarised.
Tips
- Always bring the original for comparison
- Bring your ID — particularly for notarisation
- Check how many copies are needed
- Check validity period — some institutions require copies no older than 3–6 months
- Plan ahead for apostilles — factor in additional time
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a police officer certify documents?
Yes. SAPS members are designated commissioners of oaths. However, police-certified copies are generally not accepted for international use — you need a notarised copy for that.
What is the difference between certified and notarised?
A certified copy is stamped by a commissioner confirming it is a true copy. A notarised copy includes a formal notarial certificate with the notary’s signature, stamp, and High Court seal — carrying greater legal weight and international recognition.
Do I need a notarised copy for a visa application?
In most cases, yes. Embassies typically require notarised copies. A commissioner’s certification is usually not accepted for visa purposes.
Can a notary also act as a commissioner of oaths?
Yes. Every notary is also an attorney and therefore a commissioner. A notary can do both. But a commissioner cannot notarise unless separately admitted as a notary.
How much does notarisation cost?
Fees vary by type and number of documents. It costs more than free police certification, but reflects the notary’s qualifications and international acceptance. Contact us for a quote.
Get Your Documents Certified or Notarised
At Louwrens Koen Attorneys, our principal has been an admitted notary public since 1995. Our Pretoria office is near the High Court and DIRCO.