Document Authentication & Apostille 2026
South African documents intended for use in foreign countries must be authenticated or apostilled. South Africa is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, which simplifies the process for use in 125+ member countries. This guide covers the full DIRCO authentication process, fees, timelines, and embassy services.
Apostille vs Full Authentication
Apostille (Hague Convention Countries)
For documents going to any of the 125+ Hague Convention member countries. A single apostille sticker from DIRCO is sufficient -- no further legalisation needed.
- Single-step process via DIRCO
- Recognised in all member countries
- Faster processing (5-10 working days)
- Lower cost
Full Authentication (Non-Hague Countries)
For countries not party to the Hague Convention (e.g., UAE, China, some African countries). Requires a chain of authentication.
- Step 1: DIRCO authentication
- Step 2: Embassy legalisation by the destination country
- Longer processing (2-6 weeks)
- Higher cost (two sets of fees)
Documents That Can Be Authenticated
Educational Documents
- University degrees and diplomas
- Academic transcripts
- Matric certificates (NSC/IEB)
- SAQA evaluation letters
- Professional registrations (ECSA, HPCSA, SACPLAN)
- Training certificates
Personal / Civil Status Documents
- Birth certificates (abridged and unabridged)
- Marriage certificates
- Death certificates
- Divorce decrees
- Name change certificates
- Adoption orders
Commercial Documents
- Company registration certificates (CIPC)
- Powers of attorney
- Board resolutions
- Trade documents and invoices
- Tax clearance certificates (SARS)
- BEE certificates
Legal Documents
- Police clearance certificates (SAPS)
- Sworn affidavits
- Court orders and judgements
- Notarial deeds
- Wills and estate documents
- Settlement agreements
Step-by-Step Apostille Process (In South Africa)
1Prepare Your Documents
Ensure your documents are original or certified copies. Some documents (affidavits, powers of attorney) must first be notarised by a South African notary public. Educational documents may need verification from the issuing institution.
2Visit DIRCO Authentication Office
Submit documents at the DIRCO Authentication Unit:
- Address: OR Tambo Building, 460 Soutpansberg Road, Rietondale, Pretoria
- Hours: Monday-Friday, 07:30-12:30 (submission), 12:30-15:30 (collection)
- Tel: +27 12 351 1000
3Pay the Fee
Pay the authentication fee at DIRCO. Payment is made by bank deposit or EFT to the DIRCO bank account (details provided at the office). Cash is generally not accepted.
4Collect Your Apostilled Document
Processing takes 5-10 working days for apostille (Hague countries) and 10-15 working days for full authentication (non-Hague countries). DIRCO attaches an apostille sticker or authentication stamp to your document.
Authentication from Outside South Africa
If you are living abroad and need South African documents authenticated, you have several options:
Via SA Embassy
Submit documents at your nearest SA embassy or high commission. The mission forwards them to DIRCO in Pretoria. Processing takes 4-8 weeks due to courier times. Fee: R100-R200 per document plus courier costs.
Via an Agent
Appoint a person in South Africa (family member, friend, or professional agent) to submit documents at DIRCO on your behalf with a signed power of attorney. Several professional services specialise in DIRCO submissions.
By Courier
Some agents accept documents by international courier, submit them to DIRCO, and return the apostilled documents to you. Ensure you use a tracked, insured courier service for original documents.
Fees Summary
| Service | Fee (ZAR) | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Apostille (Hague Convention) | R100 per document | 5-10 working days |
| Full authentication (non-Hague) | R100 + destination embassy fee | 10-15 working days |
| Authentication via SA embassy abroad | R100-R200 per document | 4-8 weeks |
| Notarisation (if required first) | R200-R500 per document | Same day |
Fees are subject to change. Confirm with DIRCO or your nearest SA mission before submitting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting photocopies: DIRCO requires original documents or certified copies -- plain photocopies are rejected
- Skipping notarisation: Affidavits, powers of attorney, and some legal documents must be notarised before DIRCO will apostille them
- Wrong DIRCO office: Authentication is only done at the Pretoria office (OR Tambo Building), not at any other DHA or government office
- Expired documents: Police clearances and medical certificates have limited validity -- check the destination country’s requirements
- Confusing apostille with notarisation: A notary authenticates signatures; DIRCO authenticates the document for international use. Both may be needed.