How to Get an Apostille in South Africa (Step by Step)

Step 1: Confirm Whether You Need an Apostille or Embassy Legalisation

Not all countries accept an apostille.

• Hague Convention countries → Apostille only

• Non-Hague countries → Apostille + embassy legalisation

Mzansi Communications verifies destination country requirements before submission to prevent rejection.

Step 2: Obtain the Correct Original Document

DIRCO only apostilles original documents or properly certified copies, depending on document type.

Examples:

• Home Affairs certificates must be original DHA-issued copies

• Academic documents must be verified by the issuing institution

• Police clearances must be SAPC-issued originals

Step 3: Notarial or Magistrate Certification (If Required)

H3: When Notarisation Is Mandatory

Certain documents must first be:

• Signed before a Notary Public, or

• Certified by a Magistrate or Commissioner of Oaths

Incorrect certification is one of the main reasons apostille applications are rejected.

Step 4: DIRCO Apostille Submission

DIRCO is the only authority that issues an apostille in South Africa.

Key facts:

• No walk-in public submissions allowed

• Processing timelines vary

• Errors restart the process from the beginning

Mzansi Communications submits directly, tracks progress, and manages corrections if required.

Step 5: Embassy Legalisation (If Required)

If your destination country is not part of the Hague Convention, the apostilled document must then be legalised by the relevant embassy or consulate in South Africa.

This step often involves:

• Translation into the destination language

• Multiple embassy stamps

• Country-specific formats