How to Get a Document Notarised in Hong Kong
Notarization is the process of verifying the authenticity of a document and the identity of the person signing it.
In Hong Kong, you can get a document notarized through a Notary Public.
Steps to Get a Document Notarised:
1. Identify the Need for Notarization: Determine if your document requires notarization. Common documents that may require notarization include:
Powers of attorney
Affidavits
Contracts
Deeds
2. Find a Notary Public: You can find a Notary Public through the Hong Kong Society of Notaries.
3. Prepare Your Documents: Ensure your document is complete, accurate, and ready for notarization. Bring multiple copies if needed, as the notary will usually retain a copy.
4. Book an Appointment: Most notaries require appointments. Contact the notary you've chosen to schedule a time.
5. Bring Required Identification: You will need to provide valid government-issued identification, such as a passport or Hong Kong ID card.
6. Attend the Appointment: Arrive on time with your documents and identification. The notary will verify your identity and the contents of the document.
7. Pay the Fee: There is usually a fee for notarization services.
Additional Considerations:
Apostille: If the notarized document will be used in a foreign country, you may need to get an apostille. This is a certificate that authenticates the notary's seal.
Language: If your document is not in English, you may need a certified translation.
Determining if Your Document Needs Notarization or an Apostille
General Information on Notarization and Apostilles
Here's a brief overview:
Notarization is typically required when:
Verifying the identity of the person signing the document.
Confirming the voluntary nature of the signature.
Ensuring the document is a true and accurate copy of the original.
An Apostille is an international certificate that authenticates the seal or stamp of a public official on a document. It's usually required when:
Using a document in a country that is a signatory to the Hague Apostille Convention.
The document needs to be legally recognized in that country.
Common Scenarios
To give you a better idea, here are some common scenarios:
Power of Attorney to be used in the United States: Typically requires notarization and an apostille.
Birth Certificate to be used in Canada: Usually requires notarization and an apostille.
Marriage Certificate to be used in Australia: Might require notarization or certification, but an apostille is generally not needed.
Procedures and Costs for Notarization and Apostille in Hong Kong
Procedures
Notarization:
Choose a Notary Public: Find a notary public in Hong Kong. You can search online or through recommendations.
Prepare Your Document: Ensure the document is complete and accurate. Bring multiple copies if needed.
Book an Appointment: Most notaries require appointments.
Bring Identification: You will need to provide valid government-issued identification.
Attend the Appointment: The notary will verify your identity and the document's contents.
Pay the Fee: The notary will charge a fee for the service.
Apostille (if required):
Obtain Notarized Document: First, get your document notarized as described above.
Submit to Apostille Authority: The Hong Kong Immigration Department is the apostille authority. You can submit the document in person or by mail.
Pay the Fee: There is a fee for the apostille service.
Collect Apostilled Document: Once processed, you can collect the document with the apostille attached.
Costs
Notarization Fee: Varies depending on the notary, the document's complexity, and the number of signatures. Expect to pay at least HKD 900.
Apostille Fee: Typically around HKD 1000.
Note: These are general estimates. Actual costs may vary.
Additional Considerations
Document Complexity: Complex documents may require additional time and fees.
Urgent Services: Some notaries and apostille authorities offer expedited services for an additional fee.
Translation: If your document is not in English, you may need a certified translation.
Cost of Notarization in Hong Kong
The standard starting point for notarization fees in Hong Kong is HKD 900.
However, it's important to note that this is a baseline figure. The actual cost can vary depending on several factors:
Complexity of the document: More complex documents may incur higher fees.
Number of signatures required: Each additional signature usually comes with an extra charge.
Additional services: If you need expedited service or other special requests, you might pay more.
Notary public: Different notaries may have different fee structures.
To get a precise quote, it's best to contact a notary public directly and provide them with details about your document.
How to Get a Document Notarised in Hong Kong
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