What is a Certify Document?
A certified document is a copy of an original document that has been certified by an official such as a University of South Australia staff member, Justice of the Peace, Notary Public, Police Officer or Examining Authority.
When applying for a UniSA degree, you may be asked to provide a certified copy or document. This could be a record of your previous study or qualifications, such as your high school or university studies.
Where Can I Certify Documents in South Africa?
- You can have copies of original documents certified at any police station, at any time.
- The certification of copies is done free of charge.
- You must provide your own copies. The police station’s resources such as photocopy machines and paper, are not for use by the public.
- You must provide the original documents when requesting to have copies certified. Copies will not be certified if the original documents are not produced for verification.
- Please be patient. Remember that the police station has certain priorities to deal with, and it might take a while before they can attend to you.
- Alternatively, you can have copies certified at the following places:
- Lawyers or notary public (who are members of a recognized professional body)
- Actuaries or accountants (who are members of a recognized professional body)
- Members of the judiciary
- Directors, managers or company secretaries of a bank or regulated financial services business.
What do you need to be able to certify documents in South Africa?
In South Africa, only a notary can notarise documents. Only notaries may offer notary services. A notary public can certify a copy of a document.
The notary may either attach a separate notarial certificate containing the certification or write the certification on the photocopy itself.
How long are certified documents valid for South Africa?
six months
Certified documents now expire after six months
Who can legally certify documents in South Africa?
Lawyers or notary public (who are members of a recognized professional body) Actuaries or accountants (who are members of a recognized professional body) Members of the judiciary. Directors, managers or company secretaries of a bank or regulated financial services business.
How do I notarize a document in South Africa?
1. The original documents must be taken to a South African Notary Public and must be signed or copied in his/her presence.
The Notary will then attach an authentication certificate to the signed document or copy which will include the Notary’s signature, stamp, and seal.