June 14, 2026
One of the most common calls we receive starts with:
“My bank overseas has asked me to get documents notarised. What do I need to do?”
Whether you are opening a bank account, applying for a loan, providing a guarantee, purchasing property, or transferring funds internationally, overseas banks often require documents to be notarised before they will accept them.
If you have received instructions from a bank overseas, do not panic. In most cases the process is straightforward once you understand what is required.
Why Has the Bank Asked for Notarised Documents?
Banks overseas must verify the identity of customers and confirm that documents have been properly signed.
As a result, banks frequently require:
- Powers of Attorney
- Loan documents
- Letters of Guarantee
- Net Worth Statements
- Identity documents
- Company resolutions
- Director declarations
- Beneficial ownership documents
- Account opening forms
A Notary Public provides independent verification of the identity of the person signing the document and certifies the authenticity of the signature.
Do I Need a Notary Public, Apostille or Legalisation?
This is one of the most common areas of confusion.
Depending on the country, you may require:
Notarisation
A Notary Public witnesses your signature and certifies the document.
Apostille
Some countries require an Apostille after notarisation. An Apostille is issued by the Australian Government and confirms the authenticity of the Notary Public’s signature and seal.
Embassy Legalisation
Certain countries require legalisation through their embassy or consulate after notarisation and authentication.
If you are unsure what is required, simply provide us with the document and the name of the country where it will be used.
Common Countries We Assist With
We regularly assist clients with documents intended for use in:
- Nepal
- India
- China
- United Arab Emirates
- United Kingdom
- United States
- Philippines
- Vietnam
- Thailand
- Indonesia
- European Union countries
Corporate Documents for Overseas Banks
Many business owners are surprised to discover that overseas banks require Australian company documents to be notarised.
We regularly assist with:
- ASIC company extracts
- Company constitutions
- Director resolutions
- Shareholder resolutions
- Corporate guarantees
- Banking resolutions
- Commercial agreements
Whether you are opening an overseas bank account or expanding your business internationally, we can assist with the notarisation process.
Need a Document Signed Urgently?
International transactions are often time sensitive.
You may be facing:
- A settlement deadline
- A banking deadline
- A visa application deadline
- A property transaction overseas
- An overseas business transaction
We understand the importance of acting quickly and offer prompt appointments where available.
Speak With a Sydney Notary Public
If an overseas bank has asked you to obtain notarised documents, contact us today.
We can assist with:
✓ Notarisation
✓ Apostilles
✓ Authentication
✓ Embassy legalisation
✓ Corporate documents
✓ Personal documents
Call 0422 058 165
Email michael@solicitor.sydney
???? Book Online:
https://book.squareup.com/appointments/3z197ayrgdp6iv/location/LPCE976ZZ294K/services