Notarial Services Attorney vs Notary Public: What's the Difference?

If you're from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, or most Western countries, you're probably familiar with the concept of a Notary Public — someone authorised to witness signatures and certify documents. In Thailand, there is no such role. Instead, document notarization is handled by a Notarial Services Attorney.

What Is a Notarial Services Attorney?

A Notarial Services Attorney (NSA) is a licensed Thai lawyer who has received additional certification from the Lawyers Council of Thailand to perform notarial functions. This includes certifying true copies of documents, witnessing signatures, administering oaths, and preparing affidavits and statutory declarations.

What Can a Notarial Services Attorney Do?

An NSA can certify true copies of passports, academic certificates, and business documents. They can witness signatures on contracts, powers of attorney, and declarations. They can also notarize documents for use overseas — including documents required by embassies, courts, and government agencies in your home country.

Do I Need an Apostille?

If your notarized document needs to be used in a country that is party to the Hague Apostille Convention, you may need an additional apostille stamp from the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs. We can advise you on whether this step is necessary and help you through the process.

How It Works at Our Office

Simply contact us with details of what you need notarized. Bring your original documents to our office in Chiang Mai — or if you're unable to travel, we offer mobile notary services and have visited clients at their homes, hospitals, and care facilities. Most notarizations are completed same-day or next business day.