“Notary” and “attestation” are often used as if they mean the same thing, but they do not always describe the same process. The correct requirement depends on who will receive the document and what that authority wants verified.
The simplest distinction is that notarisation is a notarial act performed by an appointed notary, while attestation is a broader term for witnessing, confirming or certifying a document or signature. A notary can perform certain forms of attestation, but not every attestation is necessarily notarisation.
Notary Vs Attestation At A Glance
| Point | Notary | Attestation |
|---|---|---|
| Who performs it | An appointed notary | The authority or person specified for that purpose |
| Main purpose | A notarial act such as verifying, authenticating, certifying or attesting execution, or taking an affidavit | A broader confirmation of a signature, copy or document as required |
| Typical evidence | Notary’s signature and official seal | Signature, seal or endorsement of the specified attesting authority |
| Interchangeable | Only when the receiving authority accepts notarisation | Only when the required attestation has been completed by the correct authority |
What Is Notarisation?
Under Section 8 of the Notaries Act, 1952, a notary may perform functions including verifying, authenticating, certifying or attesting the execution of an instrument, administering an oath or taking an affidavit. The notarial act must be under the notary’s signature and official seal.
The exact step varies. It may involve confirming the identity of a person, witnessing or acknowledging execution, comparing a copy with an original, or administering an oath for an affidavit. Notarisation does not automatically prove that every statement in a document is true, nor does it replace independent legal review.
What Is Attestation?
Attestation is a wider expression. Depending on the application, it may mean that a person witnessed a signature, that a copy was compared with an original or that a specified authority confirmed the document. The attesting authority could be a notary, a gazetted officer, an authorised institutional officer, an embassy or consulate, or another body named in the instructions.
Because the word is broad, always read the requirement carefully. “Self-attested,” “notary attested,” “gazetted officer attested” and “apostilled” are different instructions.
Common Examples
Self-Attested Photocopy
The holder signs the copy, usually confirming that it is a true copy. This is not the same as a copy certified by a notary.
Notarised Copy
A qualified notary compares or deals with the copy in accordance with the applicable notarial act. The original is commonly required for comparison. Read Can A Photocopy Be Notarised? for a practical checklist.
Signature Attestation
The focus may be on witnessing or confirming a person’s signature. The person may need to sign in the presence of the specified authority and carry valid identity proof.
Embassy, Consular Or Apostille Requirements
Documents intended for use outside India may require a separate chain of authentication, apostille or consular legalisation. Ordinary notarisation may be only one step, or may not be the required step. Follow the destination authority’s current instructions.
How To Know Which One You Need
- Identify the receiving organisation and the country where the document will be used.
- Read the exact wording on the application form, email or checklist.
- Ask whether a particular officer or authority must attest the document.
- Confirm whether the original, a certified copy or only a self-attested copy is required.
- Check whether additional authentication, apostille or registration is necessary.
Do not choose notarisation merely because it appears more formal. A document completed by the wrong authority can still be rejected.
Documents Commonly Needed
- The complete document or clear photocopy
- The original record for comparison, where applicable
- Valid government-issued photo identity proof
- Address proof when relevant
- The receiving authority’s written requirement
- Supporting documents linked to the declaration or transaction
Does Notarisation Make A Document Registered?
No. Registration, notarisation and attestation serve different purposes. Certain instruments must be registered under applicable law. A notary’s signature and seal do not replace registration, payment of applicable stamp duty or compliance with another mandatory procedure.
Getting The Requirement Right In Kolkata
Before arranging a notary or attestation service in Salt Lake, New Town or Kolkata, obtain the receiving authority’s checklist. Maa Laxmi Quick Service can help you prepare for the appropriate Notary Service, with regulated work completed through qualified professionals. Contact us with the document type, destination and stated requirement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Every Attested Document Notarised?
No. Attestation may be performed by different authorised persons or institutions. It is notarisation only when the relevant notarial act is performed by a notary.
Can A Notary Attest A Signature?
A notary may perform functions permitted by the Notaries Act, including attesting execution of an instrument. The correct procedure depends on the document and purpose.
Which Is Better, Notary Or Attestation?
Neither is universally better. The correct option is the one specified by the receiving authority.
Is An Apostille The Same As Notarisation?
No. An apostille is a separate form of authentication used for eligible public documents intended for use in participating countries. Check the destination authority’s requirements.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and is not legal advice. Requirements vary by document, receiving authority and destination. Regulated notarial and legal work is completed through qualified professionals.
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