Updated October 2023 – Consular legalization (‘CL’) is the Vietnamese certification process for stamps, signatures, and titles on foreign documents before being recognized and used in Vietnam. To further elaborate, the process of consular legalization serves as a vital bridge for the seamless integration and recognition of foreign documents within Vietnam’s legal framework.
Notes: Consular legalization does not include certification of the contents and forms of the documents.
1. CL for public documents (Documents signed by the Government)
- Originals and photocopies of originals will be certified by Hong Kong’s High Court.
- Originals, the authenticated copies, and the application form will be legalized by the Consulate General of the S.R. of Vietnam in Hong Kong.
- Certified copies/translations can now be made by a notary public or the Justice Division of the District People’s Committee in Vietnam.
2. CL for private documents (Company documents)
- Originals will be notarized by a notary office or the Commissioner of Oaths office in Hong Kong.
- Originals, photocopies of originals, and notarized copies shall be certified by the Hong Kong’s High Court.
- Originals, authenticated copies, and application form will be legalized by Consulate General of the S.R. of Vietnam in Hong Kong.
- Certified copies/translations can now be made at notary public or the Justice Division of the District People’s Committee in Vietnam.
For expatriates, businesses, and legal professionals, this guide simplifies what could otherwise be a daunting process, offering clarity and direction. By demystifying the consular legalization procedure, PLF Law Firm not only facilitates smoother legal transactions but also fosters a deeper understanding of the interplay between Vietnamese and international legal systems. This guidance is a testament to their mission of simplifying legal work, embodying their expertise and dedication to serving as a beacon for those navigating the complexities of international law.
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