What Is a Notary Public and When Do You Need One?
Most people only encounter a notary public when they need documents authenticated for use abroad – and at that point they often have no idea what a notary actually does or why they’re needed. This guide explains everything clearly.
What is a notary public?
A notary public is a qualified legal professional authorised to certify and authenticate documents, signatures, and facts for use internationally. In England and Wales, notaries are regulated by the Faculty Office of the Archbishop of Canterbury and are separate from solicitors – though some solicitors are also notaries.
The key distinction between a notary and a solicitor is their international authority. A notary’s signature and seal is recognised under international law in over 170 countries, making notarised documents legally acceptable abroad in a way that a standard solicitor’s certification is not.
What does a notary public do?
A notary can:
- Certify copies of original documents (passports, degrees, birth certificates)
- Witness and authenticate signatures on legal documents
- Take sworn oaths and affidavits (sworn statements)
- Authenticate powers of attorney for use abroad
- Certify company documents for overseas transactions
- Prepare and certify documents for international property purchases
- Assist with apostille legalisation (see below)
What is an apostille?
An apostille is a standardised certificate added to a document by a designated government authority (in the UK, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office) that confirms the authenticity of the notary’s signature and seal. Once a document has an apostille, it’s accepted in all countries that are party to the Hague Apostille Convention – which includes most countries in the world.
The typical process is: notarisation by a notary → apostille from the FCDO → document accepted internationally. My Legal Hub’s Apostille Concierge service handles the entire process for you.
When do you need a notary public?
Common situations that require notarisation include:
- Buying property abroad – many countries require notarised powers of attorney and other documents
- International employment – having your qualifications certified for use in another country
- Company transactions overseas – setting up a foreign subsidiary or signing international contracts
- Overseas visa applications – some countries require notarised documents as part of the visa process
- International adoption
- Foreign court proceedings
- Proving identity or status abroad – such as confirming your marital status or the existence of your company
How is remote notarisation different?
Traditionally, you had to attend a notary’s office in person. Remote notarisation allows the process to happen via a secure video call, which is legally valid for many purposes. This is particularly useful if you’re overseas, physically unable to travel, or simply want to avoid the inconvenience of an in-person appointment.
My Legal Hub’s Remote Notarisation service connects you with a verified notary via video call – your documents are authenticated without you needing to travel anywhere.
How much does a notary charge?
Notary fees vary depending on the type and number of documents, and whether apostille processing is required. Typically:
- Single document notarisation: £60 to £200
- Multiple documents: negotiated as a package
- Apostille processing: £30 to £75 per document (FCDO fee) plus the notary’s handling fee
Find a notary public
My Legal Hub’s directory includes verified notaries across the UK and internationally. You can also access remote notarisation from anywhere in the world.