How to Notarize US Documents from Another Country

If you live, work, or travel outside the United States and need a document notarized under US law, your traditional options are limited and frustrating:

• US Embassy or Consulate: Notarial services are available but require an appointment (often weeks out), travel to the embassy, and fees of $50+ per document
• Local foreign notary: Foreign notaries operate under different legal systems. A notarization performed by a foreign notary may not be recognized by US institutions
• Fly home: Obviously impractical for a simple notarization

Remote online notarization solves this problem entirely. You connect with a US-commissioned notary via video call from wherever you are in the world.

The process is identical to domestic RON, with a few considerations:

1. Create an account on a US RON platform like Notara
2. Upload your document — the same upload process works from anywhere
3. Verify your identity — This is the step that requires attention. KBA questions are drawn from US credit and public records. If you have a US credit history (even an old one), this usually works. If not, some platforms offer alternative verification methods using your passport.
4. Schedule around time zones — With 24/7 availability, you can connect with a notary at any time, regardless of your time zone
5. Connect via video — Ensure you have a stable internet connection and a webcam
6. Download your notarized document — Immediately available as a digital file

• Expats managing US property: Real estate transactions, power of attorney for property management, tax documents
• Immigration cases: Affidavits of support signed by US sponsors, declarations from beneficiaries abroad, recommendation letters from international experts
• Military personnel overseas: Legal documents, financial POAs, vehicle transactions
• Digital nomads: Business formation documents, contracts, rental agreements
• Students studying abroad: Financial documents, consent forms, scholarship paperwork
• Dual citizens: Managing legal affairs in both countries simultaneously

• Test your internet connection first: A stable video call requires at least 5 Mbps upload and download speed
• Have your passport ready: International signers typically use a passport for ID verification
• Check the time difference: While Notara offers 24/7 service, some platforms have limited notary availability at certain hours
• Use a quiet, well-lit room: The notary needs to see your face clearly and hear you take the oath (for affidavits)
• Prepare for KBA: If you haven't lived in the US recently, your KBA questions may be based on older records. Review your US credit history before the session if possible.
• Consider apostille needs: If your notarized document will be used in a foreign country, you may also need an apostille (a certificate that authenticates the notary's authority)