Why use Apostil for document notarisation?

Saving you time: We queue for you, we apply on your behalf, we call and travel many times to follow up on your applications and then collect once ready. Usually, we receive documents much, much faster than if you had applied alone, especially if you are based outside of South Africa. You save masses of time using our services.

Why use Apostil for document notarisation?

Experience and know-how: We are a reputable firm with an extensive track record. Other providers are typically back-street operators or single operators – be aware as your personal documentation is at stake. If your documentation has errors, we attempt to have this corrected, usually at no extra cost.

Apostil – Where are we based?

Apostil.co.za has various office addresses in the Western Cape and Gauteng. You can only courier them to us, please enquire for the address (depends on your requirement). We also offer a delivery and collection service within SA and globally, through DHL, The Courier Guy and other companies. To reiterate, we only accept documentation, couriered, to our addresses.

Emigration documents

When relocating overseas from South Africa, ensuring that your essential documents are apostilled is a crucial step in the process. An apostille is a certificate that authenticates the origin of a public document, making it valid for use in another country. Without the appropriate apostilles, you may encounter delays or issues during your move. This guide outlines the documents that require apostilling and explains the importance of these emigration documents.

Personal identification emigration documents

Birth Certificates

A birth certificate is essential for verifying your identity and is frequently required for visas, school enrolments, and accessing various services abroad. Having your birth certificate apostilled ensures it is legally recognised in your new country of residence.

Passports

Although your actual passport does not require an apostille, copies of your passport may be needed for legal and administrative purposes abroad. Apostilling these copies guarantees their acceptance as valid identification documents.

Educational documents

Diplomas and Degrees

Apostilling your diplomas and degrees is vital for job applications and pursuing further education abroad. Employers and academic institutions will need proof of your qualifications, and an apostille certifies their legitimacy.

Transcripts

Academic transcripts provide a detailed record of your educational history. Apostilled transcripts are often requested by foreign educational institutions or employers for academic verification.

Legal and civil emigration documents

Marriage Certificates

If you are moving overseas with your spouse, an apostilled marriage certificate is necessary for spousal visas and confirming your marital status. This document will serve as proof of marriage in your new country.

Divorce Decrees

Should you plan to remarry or need to confirm your divorce status for legal reasons abroad, divorce decrees must be apostilled. This ensures the document is acknowledged by foreign authorities.

Police Clearance Certificates

Police clearance certificates are required for background checks, especially when applying for visas or jobs where a clean criminal record is necessary. Apostilling these certificates makes sure they are accepted by authorities abroad.

Medical Records

Medical records may be needed for health clearances or to ensure continuous care in your new country. Apostilled medical records will be recognised by healthcare providers and relevant authorities abroad.

Documents that may need to be apostilled

Professional Licenses

If you are employed in a regulated profession, such as medicine, law, or engineering, having your professional licenses apostilled is necessary to meet the legal requirements for practising in your new country.

Employment Contracts

Apostilled employment contracts are critical for securing work visas and verifying employment terms. This helps confirm your job status with immigration authorities and employers abroad.

Tax Records

Tax records may be required to prove financial responsibility or to comply with tax regulations in your new country. Apostilling these records ensures they are recognised by foreign tax authorities.

How to obtain apostilles for your emigration documents

To obtain apostilles for your documents, follow these steps:

Identify required documents: Determine which documents need to be apostilled based on the requirements of the country you are moving to.
Prepare documents: Gather the original documents and ensure they are in good condition.
Contact relevant authorities: Submit your documents to the appropriate South African authorities for apostille certification. This typically involves the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) or other designated offices.
Receive apostilled documents: After processing, you will receive your documents with the apostille certificate attached, confirming their authenticity for use abroad.

How apostilled emigration documents can help ensure a smooth transition overseas

Having your documents apostilled guarantees that they are legally recognised in your new country, facilitating the process of obtaining visas, enrolling in schools, securing employment, accessing healthcare, and handling other essential tasks. Properly apostilled documents prevent potential delays and complications, helping to ensure a smoother, stress-free transition to life abroad.

How Apostil.co.za can help

Apostil.co.za works with experienced immigration lawyers to assist South Africans with tax emigration. Our team can guide you through the complex process of changing your tax residency, ensuring that you have all the necessary documentation and that your tax obligations are managed efficiently. With our professional assistance, your transition abroad will be smoother and hassle-free.

📞 Call us today at +27 21 825 9940 or +27 11 083 9830
📧 Email: clients@apostil.co.za