Notarization and attestation are similar activities, for affirming the authenticity of documents and certificates. Since both deals with authenticating the credibility of the documents and the signatures on the same, many confuse one with the other. However, the procedure, the validity, and acceptance of notarization and attestation are different. We will discuss in detail the difference between notarization and attestation, let’s dive in.
What is Notarization?
The notarization process involves an authorized public notary. The parties will sign the document in the presence of the approved notary. Thereby, confirming the authenticity of the signature and preventing the possibility of fraud.
The notary public will confirm the credibility of the signatures (after ascertaining the identity of the individuals based on the documents provided) by signing and putting the seal subsequently. It silently states that the notary has examined the identity of the individuals and confirms the validity. Some of the countries need a lawyer to accompany the individuals for notarization formalities.
Documents including Power of Attorney (POA), Articles of Association (AOA), Memorandum of Associations (MOA), Affidavits, and Sale Deeds will need notarization. It may be noted that notarization should not be considered a replacement for attestation.
What is Attestation?
Attestation is the process of authentication of a document or certificate by a third party, who is not involved in the activity directly or indirectly. Any person above the age of 18 can do attestation. It doesn’t require a notary to attest the document. However, in certain countries like India, attestation from an authorized officer may be sought. In that case, one needs to submit the original documents and associated proofs (if any) to the said officer. He or she will scrutinize the same, and may ask for additional certifications if deemed necessary, and puts the sign and seal.
Governmental organizations, public firms and other departments may direct the applicant to submit attested documents. The attestation must be from an authorized gazette officer in that case. It is done on the original document or the true copy of the same (It may be noted that self-attestation is possible for some of the documents in India, as per the amendments by the Government of India).
However, attestation of documents and certificates for use in the UAE is an entirely different scenario. The expats and residents in the UAE will have to submit attested documents for varying requirements including visa, business set up, employment, higher education, resident status and many more. The competent authorities in the home country and MOFA in the UAE must perform educational certificate attestation, non-educational certificate attestation, and commercial documents attestation that are sought by the authorities. For those to be used in the country.
The attestation in the subject case will involve the issuing organization in the country of origin, the Ministry of Human Resource Development (HRD) (or the relevant ministry associated with the document), the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)/ Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), the embassy/ consulate of the UAE in the home country and MOFA in the UAE. It is an extensive and daunting task, which will require expert support to complete in a stipulated time.
The procedure for certificate attestation in UAE will depend on several factors including the type of document, the ministries and departments involved, and the procedure in place. A professional with adequate knowledge only will be able to conclude the activity without undue delays.
Also Read – MOFA Attestation in UAE
What is the Difference Between Notarization and Attestation?
So, what is the difference between notarization and attestation? Notarization and attestation are completely different concepts. If you need just a witness to confirm the genuineness of the document, you may get the attestation done. Unless stipulated by the authority (The whole procedure is different in the case of attestation of the document/ certificate for use in the UAE). However, a notary public is essential for the notarization of the document.
The key difference between notarization and attestation is that the notarization does not confirm the authenticity of the document. It only confirms the signature of the parties on the document. A notarization simply implies that the document has been signed in the presence of the approved notary. Nevertheless, an attestation substantiates that the document is genuine. Therefore, it can never be a replacement for attestation or vice versa.
Also Read – Difference between Apostille and Attestation
Prime Global offers a one-stop solution for attestation of educational, non-educational and commercial documents. We have our offices in a number of countries across the globe, including India, Pakistan, the US, UK, the Philippines, and Canada. With the experienced team performing the attestation services with due diligence, we can complete the assigned tasks with perfection. A systematic methodology, to comply with the formalities in the shortest possible time, has been the main feature that distinguishes us from others. We assure you of trustworthy support for all your attestation requirements.
Do drop us a message or contact us now. Our executive will arrive at your location for collecting the document for attestation and commence the process.
