Define: Certified Document

A certified document is a document that has been verified as a true and accurate copy of the original by a qualified authority, such as a notary public or a government official.

Certified documents are often required for legal or official purposes, such as applying for a passport, obtaining a visa, or submitting documents to a court or government agency. They provide assurance that the copy is authentic and can be relied upon.

The specific requirements for certifying a document may vary depending on the jurisdiction, but generally, a notary public, lawyer, or government official with the authority to administer oaths can certify a document.

To get a document certified, you typically need to present the original document and a copy to the certifying authority. They will compare the copy to the original, verify its accuracy, and then stamp or sign the copy to indicate that it is a certified document.

Yes, there is usually a fee associated with certifying a document. The amount may vary depending on the certifying authority and the type of document being certified.

The time it takes to get a document certified can vary depending on the certifying authority and their workload. It is advisable to contact the authority in advance to inquire about their processing times.

Certified documents are generally accepted internationally, but it is always advisable to check the specific requirements of the country or organisation where you intend to use the document. Some countries may require additional steps, such as authentication or legalization, for foreign documents to be recognized.

The validity of a certified document depends on the purpose for which it is being used. Some documents, such as birth certificates or marriage certificates, may have no expiration date. However, for certain legal or official purposes, there may be specific time limits or requirements for obtaining updated certified copies.

In most cases, you can only request a certified copy of a document if you have a legitimate interest or legal authority to do so. For example, you may be able to request a certified copy of a birth certificate for your child or a certified copy of a contract if you are a party to the agreement.