An apostille is a formal certificate used to authenticate a South African public document for use in another country that is part of the Hague Apostille Convention. It confirms the origin of the signature or seal on the document; it does not verify the content of the document itself.
When is an apostille required?
An apostille may be required when a South African document must be presented to a foreign authority, employer, educational institution, court, immigration office, or business partner.
- Birth, marriage, and death certificates
- Police clearance certificates
- Educational qualifications and transcripts
- Company and commercial documents
- Notarial documents and powers of attorney
How the process generally works
- Confirm the destination country and document type.
- Determine whether the original, a certified copy, or a notarised copy is required.
- Complete any necessary verification before authentication.
- Submit the document to the relevant authority.
- Collect or securely deliver the completed document.
Important: Requirements differ according to the document, issuing authority, and destination country. The correct route should be confirmed before submission.
How Swift Global Services assists
Swift Global Services can review your requirement, explain the process, coordinate supporting documentation, assist with submission logistics, and keep you informed throughout the process.