Certifying signatures and copies

A certification usually takes a few minutes. The notary confirms one specific fact: that a document was signed by a given person, that a copy matches the original, or that a document was presented on a certain day.

What we certify

Most often signatures, for example on a power of attorney, a car sale agreement or consent for a child to travel abroad. We also certify that copies match the original (diplomas, certificates, company documents), the date a document was presented, and proof of life, which foreign pension funds often ask for.

Documents in other languages

If the document is not in Polish, the notary needs to understand its content. Please send it to us beforehand; in some cases a sworn translation will be needed. Documents certified by a Polish notary that are to be used abroad may also need an apostille, which is issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

What to bring and costs

Bring a valid ID card or passport and the unsigned document, because you sign it in front of the notary. Certifying a signature costs PLN 20 net when the document does not state a value; certifying a copy costs PLN 6 net per page. See Notary fees.

Frequently asked questions

Should I sign the document before coming?

Preferably not. You sign in front of the notary. If the document is already signed, you will have to confirm before the notary that the signature is yours. Please bring a valid ID card or passport.

Will a document certified in Poland be accepted abroad?

In many countries it will need an apostille, issued by the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Check the requirements of the institution that asked for the document.

What is the difference between an official copy and a simple copy?

An official copy (wypis) of a notarial deed has the same legal force as the original, which stays at the notary’s office. A simple copy (odpis) contains the full text but does not have that force.