When it comes to handling legal documents in Singapore, especially those intended for official, corporate, or international use, the terms Notarisation and SAL Authentication often appear together. While many law firms assume they serve the same purpose, the two processes are quite different and choosing the wrong one can delay legal proceedings, contract execution, immigration processes, or compliance submissions.
This guide breaks down the difference between Notarisation and SAL Authentication and when each is required, especially in cases involving certified legal translation services in Singapore.
What Is Notarisation in Singapore?
Notarisation is the process whereby a Singapore Notary Public verifies:
- The authenticity of signatures
- The identity of the signing party
- The validity of documents presented
- That copies are true representations of originals
Once verified, the Notary Public issues a notarial certificate or stamps and seals the document.
Common Documents Requiring Notarisation:
- Power of attorney
- Affidavits and statutory declarations
- Business contracts
- Immigration papers
- Academic credentials
- Certified translated documents
Law firms typically request notarisation when documents must be legally validated for use locally or abroad.
What Is SAL Authentication?
After a document has been notarised, some jurisdictions require SAL Authentication (Singapore Academy of Law authentication).
SAL Authentication confirms that:
- The Notary Public’s signature is legitimate
- The notarisation performed complies with legal standards
It acts as a second layer of verification, especially for documents being used overseas similar to apostille legalization in other jurisdictions.
Note: Singapore is not part of the Hague Apostille Convention, which means SAL Authentication is often required for international use.
When Is SAL Authentication Required?
You may need SAL authentication if:
✔ Your document is being submitted to a foreign government, embassy, or court
✔ You are applying for work permits, immigration, or visas abroad
✔ You are handling international litigation, corporate filings, or tenders
Most embassies, foreign authorities, and multinational companies will not accept notarised documents without SAL authentication.
Where Certified Translations Fit In
For foreign-language documents, certified legal translation is often required before notarisation.
Typical workflow for international submissions:
- Certified Legal Translation
- Notarisation
- SAL Authentication
- (Optional) Embassy or Ministry Legalisation
Law firms working with cross-border agreements, immigration cases, or court filings must ensure documents follow this order to avoid rejection.
Notarisation vs SAL Authentication: Quick Comparison Table
| Requirement | Notarisation | SAL Authentication |
|---|---|---|
| Verifies identity or document authenticity | ✔ Yes | ✘ No |
| Verifies Notary Public credentials | ✘ No | ✔ Yes |
| Required for local use | Sometimes | Rarely |
| Required for overseas use | Often | Usually mandatory |
| Applies to certified translations | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes |
Common Mistakes Law Firms Make
- Assuming notarisation is enough for overseas legal use
- Submitting translated documents without certification
- Using uncertified translators for legal submissions
- Applying for SAL authentication before notarisation
These mistakes can lead to rejection, rework, and delays especially in time-sensitive immigration or litigation matters.
Final Thoughts
For Singapore law firms handling international legal documentation, understanding the difference between Notarisation and SAL Authentication is crucial. When combined with certified legal translation services, these steps ensure documents are legally accepted whether in Singapore or abroad.
If you need assistance with translation, notarisation, or SAL authentication, working with an experienced language and compliance partner can ensure accuracy and legal acceptance from the start.
