Can a UK notary notarise foreign documents?

Yes, a UK Notary Public can notarise documents that originate from or are intended for use in a foreign country. This is a core part of their role.

However, there are important nuances and specific situations to consider. It’s not a blanket “yes” – what the notary can do with a foreign document depends on the document itself and the required notarial act.

Here’s a detailed breakdown:

• Witness signatures on documents intended for use abroad are a primary function. If you need to sign a document (e.g., a power of attorney, contract, affidavit) used in another country, a UK Notary Public can witness your signature, verify your identity, and add their notarial certificate and seal. This makes the document eligible for an apostille (if the destination country is part of the Hague Convention) or for further legalisation. The document’s content might be related to a foreign matter, but the notarial act is performed in the UK.

• Certify copies of some foreign documents: A UK Notary Public can often certify a copy of a foreign document as a true copy of the original, provided they are satisfied with its authenticity. This is common for things like:
  • Passports (from any country).
  • Foreign driving licences.
  • Some educational documents (but see the crucial point about verification below).
  • Some company documents.
  • The Notary will need to see the original.

• Take affidavits, oaths, and declarations relating to foreign matters: If you need to make a sworn statement (affidavit) or a statutory declaration relating to a matter in another country, a UK Notary Public can administer the oath/affirmation and notarise your statement.

• Notarise a UK-issued document: Ready for legalisation for use overseas.

• Educational documents: This is a very important and often misunderstood area.
  • Foreign educational documents: A UK Notary can often certify a copy of a foreign degree certificate, transcript, etc., provided they are satisfied with the original. However, this certification only confirms it’s a true copy; it does not verify the degree itself.

• Vital records (birth, marriage, death certificates):
  • Foreign vital records: A UK Notary can authenticate a copy of a foreign birth, marriage, or death certificate if a declaration is signed, confirming the document is authentic.

• Translations: A UK Notary Public can notarise the signature of a translator who has translated a foreign document. The notary is not verifying the accuracy of the translation itself but rather the translator’s identity and signature.