How Long Does Online Notarisation Take?
- S Najam
- 5 days ago
- 4 min read
Updated for 2026
One of the most common questions we receive is:
"How long does online notarisation take?"
The answer depends on the type of document, the country where it will be used and whether any additional legalisation is required. However, in many cases, the online appointment itself takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes once your documents have been reviewed in advance.
At Staple Inn Notaries, we aim to make the process as efficient as possible while ensuring that every notarisation complies with the professional standards governing notaries in England and Wales.
Service | Typical Appointment Time |
Certified copy | 20 minutes |
Power of Attorney | 20–30 minutes |
Company documents | 30–45 minutes |
Multiple signatories | 45–60 minutes |
How Long Does the Appointment Take?
For most private individuals, an online notary appointment takes between 20 and 30 minutes.
More complex matters—particularly involving companies, multiple signatories, overseas transactions or several documents—may require additional time.
The duration of the appointment is influenced by factors such as:
the number of documents;
the complexity of the transaction;
whether identity documents have been provided in advance;
whether the documents require amendment;
whether an interpreter is required; and
whether additional legalisation will be needed after notarisation.
The Process Step by Step
Understanding the process helps explain why some matters can be completed very quickly while others require additional work.
Step 1 – Book Your Appointment
Choose a convenient appointment using our online booking calendar.
Booking takes only a few minutes and allows us to allocate sufficient time for your matter.
Step 2 – Send Your Documents
Before your appointment, you should send:
the document requiring notarisation;
your passport;
proof of address; and
any instructions received from the overseas lawyer or authority.
Reviewing your documents in advance enables us to identify any issues before the appointment and often reduces the overall time required.
Step 3 – Document Review
Before the appointment begins, we carefully review:
the document itself;
the requirements of the receiving country;
whether notarisation is appropriate;
whether an Apostille may be required; and
whether any amendments should be made before signing.
This preparation helps avoid delays later in the process.
Step 4 – Identity Verification
Every English notary has a professional duty to verify the identity of the person signing the document.
During your appointment, we will:
verify your identity;
confirm your residential address;
ensure that you understand the document;
confirm that you are signing voluntarily; and
answer any questions you may have.
Although this process is thorough, it is usually completed within a matter of minutes.
Step 5 – Signing the Document
Depending upon the document and the requirements of the receiving authority, the document may be signed during the appointment.
If further steps are required, we will explain the process before completion.
Step 6 – The Notarial Certificate
Once all requirements have been satisfied, the notarial certificate is prepared.
Where appropriate, we will also advise on whether the document requires:
a Hague Apostille;
embassy legalisation; or
certified translation.
Can I Obtain Same-Day Notarisation?
In many cases, yes.
Where documents have been provided in advance and no unexpected issues arise, it is often possible to arrange a same-day or next-business-day appointment, subject to availability.
If your matter is urgent, please let us know when making your booking and we will do our best to accommodate your requirements.
What Causes Delays?
Most delays arise because:
documents are incomplete;
identification documents have not been provided;
the overseas authority changes its requirements;
amendments are required after the appointment has been booked; or
additional legalisation becomes necessary.
Providing all documentation in advance is the best way to ensure that your appointment proceeds smoothly.
Can Businesses Use Online Notarisation?
Yes.
We regularly assist:
limited companies;
overseas corporations;
financial institutions;
professional advisers;
property investors; and
international businesses.
Corporate matters often require additional documentation to confirm authority to sign, so these appointments may take longer than those involving private individuals.
What Happens After Notarisation?
Once your document has been notarised, the next steps will depend upon the country where it will be used.
This may include:
obtaining a Hague Apostille;
embassy or consular legalisation;
certified translations; or
secure delivery of the completed documents.
We can advise you throughout the process.
How Can I Speed Up the Process?
To help us complete your matter as efficiently as possible:
✔ Book your appointment in advance.
✔ Send your documents before the meeting.
✔ Provide clear copies of your passport and proof of address.
✔ Tell us which country will receive the document.
✔ Send any instructions provided by the overseas authority or your lawyer.
Doing so allows us to prepare your matter before your appointment and minimise unnecessary delays.
Book Your Online Notary Appointment
Booking an online appointment is quick and straightforward.
Simply choose a convenient date and time using our secure online booking calendar.
Book your appointment here:
If, after reviewing your documents, we determine that a face-to-face appointment is more appropriate, we will explain the reasons before your appointment takes place.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an online notary appointment usually take?
Most appointments take approximately 20 to 30 minutes, although more complex matters may require additional time.
Can I obtain same-day notarisation?
Often, yes. Same-day appointments may be available depending on availability and whether your documents have been provided in advance.
Does obtaining an Apostille take longer?
Yes. The timescale for an Apostille depends on the processing arrangements of the relevant authority and whether standard or expedited services are available.
Will my appointment take longer if I have several documents?
Possibly. The overall time depends on the number of documents, the complexity of the transaction and whether additional legalisation is required.
Can I book my appointment online?
Yes. Our online booking system allows you to choose a convenient appointment time and begin the process quickly.
About Staple Inn Notaries
Staple Inn Notaries is a Central London notarial practice providing professional notarial services to individuals, businesses and international organisations. We advise on notarisation, Apostilles, embassy legalisation and cross-border legal documentation, offering both in-person appointments and, where appropriate, remote online notarisation. Our aim is to provide an efficient, responsive and professional service tailored to each client's requirements.
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