JasonOZ

I've just got a quote from a solicitor for certifying documents, but initially they weren't sure if they were able to do it and said I may need a Notary of the public? My understanding was that as a solicitor they are able to certify documents? I'm getting it done at £40 for 12 documents which I think is reasonable ?

myrtle1

Solicitors are fine to do this - but cannot stress enough to shop around. We had one who quoted £5 per document, another said £10 per document and the one we chose said they would do up to 10 documents for a total price of £10.
Well worth ringing around!

JasonOZ

Thanks for the advice! I think I'd better shop around then..that was the first quote I've had :-)

lesleys

Will your bank do it for you?

JasonOZ

I'm not sure if banks are able to do it to be honest, but I've done a quick search on the immi website, and I'm not sure if it's still relevant, but found this:

"Can agents certify documents?

Yes. From 1 October 2006 the Migration Regulations 1994 were amended to provide that registered migration agents, in Australia and outside Australia, may certify copies of original documents that relate to visa applications, provided that their registration is not currently suspended and they are not subject to a caution that is in effect."

shella_n

Just to go back to the original question - a solcitor is different to a Notary Public. Quite often Notary Publics are solicitors but they have to do a special course to become a NP.

If its just a case of certifying documents then a solicitor will be able to do this. If its an official document from another country that needs signing before a NP it will cost you more - anything from £40 up.

Lyx

I had all mine certified free by the notary public at the local community court. And when I went back with my QNC nursing registration form and the Justice of peace stamped and signed it (also free) for me. It may be worth ringing your local community court and asking if they offer this service.

lesleys

We got our Natwest to do our documents for visas and it was fine (6 years ago). And free as we were customers.

Phone your bank and ask.

JasonOZ

I'll definately check with my bank! many thanks

JasonOZ

Apparently if you are OUTSIDE Australia, then the only people that can certify documents are a Solicitor, RMA or Notary of the Public. I've just clarified this with an agent

Si T

I have just had an accounting contact certify my CPA membership documents.

I don't know if they are also able to certify for the DIAC forms or not.

I notice you are in Cardiff but if you are in the Swansea area I will be happy to certify them for you free if qualified accountants are able to do it. I tend to get wound up when I see people charged ridiculous amounts for a few minutes work.

Si

JasonOZ

Many thanks for the offer! I'll check if you are eligible or not and get in touch :-)

Deancm

Have you spoken to the Police? In Australia the Police can certify documents and they don't charge a thing. Not sure if this is the same as in the UK but would be worth checking.

JasonOZ

I've got them certified now. Shopped around, got a few quotes, got a good bargain in the end (from a solicitor) as I had quite a few docs to certify! thanks for the advice everyone :-)

myrtle1

Excellent - good luck with your process (from one welshy to another!!!)
I was born and lived most of my life until recently in Pontypool. Spent many happy times on the lash (and watching rugby) in Cardiff