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Everything you need to know about getting an Apostille Stamp on your South African documents for international use — what it is, which countries require it, and how to apply.

What is an Apostille Stamp and when do you need one in South Africa?

If you're moving abroad, getting married in another country, or submitting South African documents to a foreign authority, you've likely been told you need an Apostille. Here's what it is and how to get one.

Table of contents

What is an Apostille?

An Apostille is an official authentication certificate issued under the Hague Convention of 1961. It certifies that a document is genuine and was issued by a legitimate authority in the originating country. South Africa is a signatory to the Hague Convention, which means South African documents can be Apostilled for use in over 115 member countries.

In South Africa, the Apostille is issued by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) in Pretoria.

An Apostille does not translate your document or certify its content — it certifies only that the signature, seal or stamp on the document is authentic.

Which countries accept an Apostille?

Any country that is a member of the Hague Convention accepts Apostilled documents. This includes most of Europe, the United States, Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and many countries in Asia, Africa and South America.

If the country you're dealing with is not a member of the Hague Convention, you'll need full legalisation (authentication + consular certification) instead of an Apostille.

Which documents can be Apostilled?

Common South African documents that can receive an Apostille include:

  • Police Clearance Certificates (SAPS)
  • Birth Certificates (Unabridged)
  • Marriage Certificates (Unabridged)
  • Death Certificates
  • Divorce Decrees
  • Educational qualifications and transcripts
  • Company documents and powers of attorney
  • Court documents

The document must carry an original signature or seal from a South African government authority before DIRCO can Apostille it.

How to apply in South Africa

  1. Obtain the original document you need authenticated (e.g., your Police Clearance Certificate from SAPS or your Unabridged Birth Certificate from Home Affairs).
  2. Submit to DIRCO at the Department of International Relations and Cooperation in Pretoria, either in person or by registered post.
  3. Pay the applicable fee per document.
  4. Receive your Apostilled document, which will have an attached or stamped Apostille certificate from DIRCO.

How long does it take?

DIRCO typically processes Apostille requests within 5 to 10 working days when submitted in person. Postal submissions take longer. During busy periods, processing can extend to 3 to 4 weeks.

Get it done with Qline

Qline handles the full Apostille process from start to finish. If you also need the underlying document first (such as a Police Clearance or Birth Certificate), Qline obtains that too and then submits it to DIRCO for Apostilling.

Call 086 183 5263 or visit qline.co.za to book your Apostille application.