1. Proof of life
This is often for pensions, or withdrawals from overseas pension pots. The pension company or government will require notarisation in order to confirm that the relevant pension is still alive to receive the benefit, or that the correct person is applying to make the withdrawal. This is normally completed using their standard forms, clients appearing in person to be identified and their signatures witnessed.
2. Affidavit/declaration
These documents are titled differently but often have the same effect. Here a client will have an in-person meeting where they will be identified, and their signatures witnessed. The document always needs to be signed with all annexures included (if there are any) and any oaths or affirmations taken.
3. Degree certificates
Often used when working abroad, usually to obtain a visa. As a notary, I will verify the degree by either using HEAR, Gradintelligence or similar or by contacting the university. My preference is to see the original certificate, but verification will always take place.
4. Power of Attorney
This is normally to allow the sale/purchase of property overseas. I typically see these documents for property transactions in Spain, Bulgaria and Turkey, but many other places will want them if you are not able to sign al documents in the country. All countries have different procedures and formats. Some want tax documents too, others need photographs of the donors and others need legalisation or an apostille too.
5. Identification documents
This is often for KYC (know your client), originals must always be seen in person so that a ‘true copy of the original’ can be made.
6. Company documents e.g. incorporation or board minutes
Typically used by English and Welsh companies setting up overseas arms or sister firms. These documents are often available from Companies House, but the recipient wants them notarised and sometimes legalised too.
7. Travel consent
This varies by country and borders. It is always essential to check which countries have what requirements depending on where the minor is travelling and who with.
8. Visa application forms or supporting documents
The Philippines have application forms that need to be notarised, and some other countries want supporting documents notarised when applying for a working or residential visa. As ever, this will vary by country and applicant, so please do check with HR, or the relevant embassy or consulate to ensure you have everything you need.
9. Sale documents
Typically US properties have various documents that need to be notarised prior to sale. This can include a warranty deed and affidavits as to tax, condition and liens on the property.
10. Contracts
This is normally for commercial documents, where both parties are businesses. This is not always the case and sometimes it could be for personal or professional representation or the engagement of services.
If you have one of these documents, or one that isn’t on the list, please don’t hesitate to contact me to discuss your needs.