Certified True Copy Singapore: Complete Step By Step Guide

If you’ve ever needed to get certified true copies of important documents in Singapore, you’re not alone. Whether it’s for a job application, a visa, or any other official business, it’s a common requirement. But don’t worry, the process is straightforward.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through it:

What is a Certified True Copy?

Certified true copies are duplicates of documents that have been double-checked and confirmed by someone qualified they usually put a stamp or sign their name on them to say that these are the real deal, just like the original documents.

When Do We Need to Get Documents Certified as True Copies in Singapore?

Getting certified true copies of documents is usually necessary for official purposes. This certification confirms that the copy accurately reflects the original document. 

Here are some common situations where you might need certified true copies:

• Legal Matters
• Government Applications
• Education Matters
• Job Applications
• Financial Transactions
• Immigration and Visas
• Property Business

Which Documents Require Certified True Copies in Singapore?

Here are some examples of documents that commonly require certified true copies in Singapore:

• Your passport
• National Identity Card (NRIC)
• Birth certificate
• Driver’s licence
• Academic transcripts
• Degree certificates
• Professional qualifications
• Marriage certificate
• Divorce decree
• Last will
• Court orders
• Bank statements
• Income tax returns
• Property ownership documents like title deeds
• Company incorporation documents
• Business licences and permits
• Contracts and agreements
• Work permits
• Employment passes
• Permanent residency documents

Can I Receive a Certified True Copy of My Electronic Documents?

Absolutely yes, You can get certified true copies of your electronic documents. The process involves printing out your electronic files and making sure they’re the same as the originals. 

Then, you can take them to a professional like a solicitor, notary public, or a government office who can verify them as true copies. This confirms their authenticity and ensures they match the original electronic documents.

Who Can Sign a Certified True Copy in Singapore?

You can get a true copy certified In Singapore by a few different types of people. These include lawyers, notaries public, certified public accountants, and government officials like Commissioners for Oaths or Justices of the Peace who sign your documents.

Many people’s minds have one question: “Can chartered accountants certify true copies of documents in Singapore?” So, the answer is yes! chartered accountants can certify a true copy of your documents in Singapore. 

They are recognised professionals who are authorised to certify various legal documents. So, if you need documents certified as true copies, also a chartered accountant is a suitable option in Singapore.

Where Should I Get a True Copy Certified in Singapore?

If you need to get a document certified true copy in Singapore, there are a few places where you can get it done easily:

1. Public Notary
2. Singapore Academy of Law
3. Lawyers
4. Embassy or Consulate
5. Commissioner for Oaths

How Do You a Certify True Copy of a Document?

When certifying a True Copy of a document, the authorised person writes a statement confirming its authenticity. 

Here are some steps for certifying true copy of a document:

Bring Both Documents: 

Take both the original document and a copy of it to the person who will certify it.

Certifier’s Check: 

The certifier will first look at the original to make sure it’s genuine, not a copy or fake.

Comparing Copies: 

Next, they’ll compare the copy with the original. Even if the copy is a different size or colour, it’s okay as long as it contains all the same information.

Certification: 

If everything checks out, the certifier will write or stamp on the copy: “Certified to be a true copy of the original seen by me.” Then they’ll sign and date it.

Certifier’s Details: 

They’ll also add their name, address (either personal or professional), and qualification as an authorised certifier.

Multiple Pages: 

If there are several pages, the certifier will sign or initial and number each one.Now, your copy is officially certified as being the same as the original.

How Much Does It Cost to Certify a True Copy in Singapore?

In Singapore, certifying a true copy usually costs between SGD $5 and SGD $20 per document. However, the exact fee can vary depending on where you go to get it done. 

You can check with the specific authority or organization offering the service to get the most accurate and current information about the fees.

Can I get a certified true copy online?

Yes, you can easily obtain a certified true copy online. Simply visit official government or legal websites, such as SingaporeTranslators.com that provide certified true copies of your document. Follow their guidelines and get their online service.

How Long Does it Typically Take to Obtain a Certified True Copy of Our Documents in Singapore?

The process of obtaining a certified true copy of your documents typically takes about 1 to 2 working days. However, keep in mind that this timeframe can vary depending on factors like the specific organisation or authority you’re dealing with and how busy they are. To make sure you get the most accurate information about the process and timing, it’s best to contact the relevant authority or agency directly.

Singapore Translators is the best agency for providing certified true copy services in Singapore.

How do I Certify True Copy of a Document in Singapore?

To receive certify true copy of a document in Singapore, follow these straightforward steps:

Get the original document: Make sure you have the original document that you want to get a certified true copy of.

Find someone to certify: Only certain professionals are authorised to certify documents in Singapore. These include lawyers, notary publics or public officers. You can find a list of these professionals on the Singapore Academy of Law website or by contacting the relevant platforms.

Make an appointment: Reach out to the certifier to schedule an appointment. This might be necessary as they could have busy schedules.

Bring both the original and the copy: When meeting the certifier, remember to take both the original document and the copy you want certified. The certifier needs to compare the copy to the original to confirm its authenticity.

Provide identification: Be prepared to provide identification to the certifier to confirm your identity.

Pay any applicable fees: Some certifiers may charge a fee for their services, so make sure you’re prepared to cover any costs.

Receive the certified true copy: Once the certifier confirms that the copy is genuine, they’ll typically stamp or sign it and provide their contact details along with the date of certification.

Use the certified true copy as needed: Your certified true copy is now ready for use. Whether it’s for submission to a government agency or as evidence in court, you’re all set.

Does a Certified True Copy Expire?

In Singapore, when you get a document Certified True Copy, it doesn’t have an expiration date. This means that once an authorised person has confirmed that a copy matches the original, it stays valid for as long as you need it.

What Happens If I Don’t Certify True Copies in Singapore?

If you don’t certify true copies when required, you may face some situations such as these::-

1. Rejection of Applications: 

Many institutions and authorities in Singapore require certified true copies of documents for processing applications. If you don’t provide the certified true copies as requested, your application may be rejected or delayed until you provide the necessary documentation.

2. Legal Invalidity:

Certain documents, especially those required for legal proceedings or official transactions, may be considered invalid if not properly certified. This can lead to delays, rejections, or legal complications in your affairs.

3. Inconvenience and Delays:

Without certified true copies, you may face difficulties in various transactions, such as opening bank accounts, applying for visas, or registering for official events. This can cause inconvenience and unnecessary delays in your personal or business dealings.

4. Legal Penalties: 

In certain situations, if you knowingly give incorrect or unauthorised documents, you could face legal effects. This might involve fines or even criminal charges for committing fraud or misrepresenting information.

When Should We Not Get Certify True Copy of Our Documents in Singapore?

You might not need to get certified copies of your documents in certain situations:

1. When originals are a must
2. Just for personal use
3. There is no legal requirement
4. You’ve already got certified copies
5. For personal convenience
6. For publicly available documents

What Happens When You Get a Document Certified True Copy in Singapore?

When you get a document certified true copy in Singapore, it means that a qualified person, like a lawyer, notary public, or commissioner for oaths, has checked and confirmed that the copy is exactly like the original document. 

This is usually needed for legal or official purposes, like when you’re submitting documents to government offices, courts, or other important places.

How Does a Certified True Copy Look?

Certified True Copy

I confirm that this is a genuine copy of the original document given to me on [date].

[Signature]

[Full Name of Certifier]
[Certifier’s Position]
[Date of Certification]

[Contact Information/Registration Number]

What is the Difference Between True Copy and Certified True Copy?

True Copy: 

This is just a copy of a document that looks exactly like the original. It’s a photocopy or a duplicate that mirrors every detail of the original document.

Certified True Copy: 

This is a true copy that’s been given an official stamp of approval. Usually, someone like a lawyer or a notary public checks the copy against the original and confirms that it’s identical. They then sign it or stamp it to verify its authenticity. 

Are a Notarized Copy and a Certified True Copy the Same Thing?

Certified True Copies and Notarized Copies both serve the same purpose: proving that a document is genuine but involve different processes and authorities.

However, the process for each can vary depending on the document and where it’s needed. 

Certified True Copy:

These are photocopies of documents that have been checked. This could be a lawyer, a notary public, or even a government official. The person certifying the copy will compare it with the original document and then stamp or sign it to show that it’s a true and accurate copy.

Notarized Copy:-

On the other hand, a notarized copy means getting a photocopy of a document certified by a notary public. Notaries public have the authority to verify documents, administer oaths, and witness signatures. So, when they notarize a copy of a document, they’re essentially saying, “Yes, this copy is a faithful reproduction of the original.” They’ll usually seal or stamp the copy to make it official.

What Exactly is a Notary Public-Certified True Copy?

A notary public certified true copy is a photocopy of an original document that’s been checked and signed by a notary public to confirm it’s a true and accurate copy.

Can I Get a Lawyer in Singapore to Certify a True Copy of My Document?

Absolutely! Singaporean Lawyers have the authority to certify true copies of documents. They’re faithful reproductions of the originals.

Do Authenticated and Certified True Copies Mean the Same Thing?

No, they don’t. Authentication confirms the validity of the original document, whereas a certified true copy confirms the accuracy of a duplicate of the original.

Where Should I Put the Stamp for a Certified True Copy in Singapore?

Usually, certified true copies are stamped and signed by the certifying authority—like a notary public or lawyer—on each page of the duplicate document.

Can Anyone Certify a Document in Singapore?

Nope, only certain authorised individuals in Singapore, such as notaries public, lawyers, or specific professionals as outlined by the law, can certify documents.

Do I Need to Certify a Copy of a Certified Copy?

Typically not necessary. The original certification already verifies the accuracy of the duplicate document, so getting another copy certified isn’t usually needed.

What’s the Difference Between an Original Document and a Certified True Copy?

An original document is the primary, untouched version, while a certified true copy is a duplicate that’s been checked and verified by an authorised person.

Can a Justice of the Peace in Singapore Certify Documents?

Absolutely. In Singapore, a Justice of the Peace is authorised to certify documents, including true copies, following local regulations.

How Can I Get a Certified True Copy Translation of my Document?

Easy. Just hire a certified translator to translate your document, then have the translated copy certified by an authorised person like a notary public or lawyer.

What Does it Mean When an Accountant Certifies Documents?

When an accountant certifies documents, it usually means they’re confirming the accuracy of financial information or related documents, in line with local regulations.

Can I Get a Certified True Copy from an Accountant in Singapore?

It’s possible, depending on where you are and the nature of the document. However, always double-check their credentials and authority before proceeding.

When Might I Need a Certified True Copy from the Singapore ICA?

Certified true copies issued by the Singapore ICA may be required for various official purposes, such as visa applications, residency applications, or legal proceedings. They serve as valid evidence of the authenticity of the duplicated document.

How Can I Obtain a Certified True Copy of My Passport?

To obtain a certified true copy of your passport, you’ll need to present the original passport document to the authorized individual or organization for certification. They will make a photocopy of the passport and certify it as a true copy, usually by stamping or signing it along with providing relevant information.