A notary public performs legal functions that go beyond what a commissioner of oaths can do. If you need a document notarised, a signature witnessed by a notary, or a notarial certificate for local or international use, you need the services of an admitted notary public.
What Is a Notary Public?
A notary public is an attorney who has completed a law degree, been admitted as an attorney, passed additional notarial practice examinations, and been admitted by the High Court as a notary public. This allows a notary to perform notarial acts — legal functions with a higher level of authority and international recognition than those of a commissioner of oaths.
Notary Public vs Commissioner of Oaths
| Commissioner of Oaths | Notary Public | |
|---|---|---|
| Who can be one | Police officers, postmasters, certain officials | Only an attorney admitted by the High Court after additional exams |
| What they can do | Witness affidavits, certify copies — for domestic use | Everything above, plus: notarise documents, issue notarial certificates, prepare documents for international use |
| International recognition | Not recognised outside South Africa | Recognised internationally |
| Documents for overseas | Cannot prepare documents for overseas legalisation | Can notarise for apostille or authentication |
Our Notary Public Services
Notarised Copies of Documents
A notarised copy carries significantly more weight than a certified copy. Required when a document is for overseas use, for apostille or authentication, or when the receiving authority specifically requires notarisation. Common: passports, degrees, qualifications, birth/marriage certificates, company documents. Certified vs notarised copies →
Witnessing Signatures
We witness the signing of powers of attorney, antenuptial contracts, affidavits for international use, commercial contracts, consent letters, and other declarations — issuing a notarial certificate confirming identity and voluntary signing.
Foreign Language Document Signing
If you need to sign a document in a foreign language, a notary can witness your signature provided you confirm understanding of the contents. The notarial certificate will be in English.
Life Certificates (Proof of Life)
Notarised certificates for pensioners receiving foreign pensions (Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, UK, and others). You appear in person, the notary confirms your identity and issues the certificate. More details →
Affidavits and Statutory Declarations
Notarised affidavits and statutory declarations for foreign authorities, including declarations of marital status, name changes, and embassy requirements. More details →
What to Bring to Your Appointment
- Your original identity document (SA smart card ID or valid passport)
- The original document to be notarised
- Any forms from the foreign authority that need completing
- Contact details of the receiving institution
Walk-In Service
Monday to Friday: 08:00 – 16:00
Office 4, Second Floor, Northern Pavilion, Loftus Versveld, 416 Kirkness Street, Arcadia, Pretoria 0007
No appointment necessary for simple notarisations. For complex matters, please make an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does notarisation cost?
Fees depend on the type and complexity. A notarised copy is less expensive than drafting a power of attorney. See our pricing guide →
How long does notarisation take?
Simple notarisations can be completed within 30 minutes during a walk-in visit. Complex matters take longer.
Can any attorney notarise documents?
No. Only an attorney admitted as a notary public by the High Court can perform notarial acts. Not all attorneys hold this qualification.
Do I need the original document?
Yes. We must work from the original. We cannot notarise a photocopy or scanned printout.
Ready to Get Started?
Contact us today for a quote or to discuss your requirements.