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If you need to use the document in China, then you will need to superlegalize it. What exactly is superlegalization is, when you need it in China, what problems you may encounter, and who can help you with this? We will talk about this on this page.
What is superlegalization?
Superlegalization is a legal clause that proves the verification of a stamp or signature in another state. It is a verification of the authenticity of the document in the form of affixing superlegalization certificates by the competent authority. You can recognize the superlegalization certificate by the printed and stamped clause on the given document.
When verifying your document, you may encounter another similar form of verification – apostille. Compared to apostille, superlegalization is more complicated. This is the highest level of verification, so you will need at least two, in some cases up to four clauses from several ministries, state bodies and embassies.
When will you need superlegalization?
There are not many cases when you need superlegalization. So let’s take a look at the most common ones you might encounter in your life.
Marriage in China
It doesn’t matter if you want to get married to a Chinese citizen or not. If you are not a resident of China, you will need superlegalization when you get married in that country. Be prepared for local authorities to request a certified birth certificate and citizenship certificate.
Temporary residence or citizenship in China
The authorities will want even more documents from you when dealing with temporary residence or citizenship. In this case, prepare a superlegalized birth certificate, marriage certificate and extract from the criminal record.
Study or work in China
Did studying at any of the Chinese universities entice you? Yes, you guessed it right, you will need superlegalization again. This time you will need to verify your diploma or certificate. You will go through a similar process when applying for a job in China. In this case, however, you will still need to nostrify your diploma or certificate.
What to prepare for when dealing with superlegalization abroad?
Handling superlegalization is not easy. You need not only original documents, but also knowledge and often contacts. So it’s no wonder you can run into a lot of problems. Let’s discuss them in the following lines to avoid them if possible.
When to ask for an apostille and when, on the contrary, for superlegalization?
The apostille was established under the Hague Convention in 1961. Its competence includes almost all states. However, there are those that are not covered by the Convention. And it is in these countries that superlegalization needs to be achieved. You can find a list of countries requiring superlegalization here.
The correct version of the forms and the validity of the documents
The first step to gaining superlegalization is to fill in the application correctly. You can download the forms from the websites of the competent authorities. In the following sections, we will describe how to proceed:
First, make sure the form is up to date. If you download an outdated version of the form, the office will reject your application for superlegalization.
Find out the age of the document to which you want to issue superlegalization.
If your document has exceeded the maximum validity period (in most cases 3 years, or 3 to 6 months), obtain a new one. Make sure it is the original.
In conclusion, we will just mention that the request for the issue of documents can be lengthy. In addition, the forms are in the language of the country. So you will need someone who knows both legal and professional terminology. Otherwise, you risk making an unnecessary mistake.
State or federal superlegalization?
The biggest problem when applying for superlegalization is to distinguish whether you need federal or state verification. Fortunately, this problem only occurs in federal states (such as the United States or Brazil), but the solution is all the more difficult. Determining whether only state or federal verification is required is very difficult and will likely require expert assistance.
You will encounter this problem in a number of situations. For example, before starting work, where you will need an extract from the criminal record. In the same case, your employer will probably also ask you for a birth certificate and diploma. Therefore, do not hesitate to contact someone who has experience in dealing with similar situations.
When will you need nostrification?
Official recognition of the validity of an authorization is required for a number of documents. Foreign institutions and employers will consider them for diplomas or certificates. If you want to know more about the whole nostrification process, you can find more detailed information in this article.
How to pay a fee for superlegalization abroad?
You may be thinking now that paying for superlegalization must be very simple. Unfortunately it’s not. Each country has its own laws. Therefore, not all countries accept money by bank transfer or card payment. Basically, you have only three options to choose from:
payment by check,
stamp payment,
payment in cash.
Always make a payment in that currency. Otherwise, you will need stamps and a check linked to a bank account abroad and a sufficient balance. Alternatively, you can visit the office in person and pay on the spot. But that will make you more expensive and will cost you a lot of time. If you want to save, Apostila.cz will arrange payment for you. Safely and without unnecessary delays.
How to deliver superlegalization by mail?
When applying for superlegalization by mail, you basically have only two options. You will either enclose a return envelope with the filled in address of the applicant and a foreign stamp affixed together with the documents, or you will trust the courier. But the problem can appear with the couriers.
Some courier services offer the option of ordering with return delivery, but for many customers from abroad, this service is unavailable. So you will need someone to send the superlegalization home. If you don’t have anyone, entrust this work to us. We will take care not only of the superlegalization itself, but also of its safe delivery back to you.
How long does it take to complete a superlegalization?
The whole process of superlegalization takes a really long time. In some cases, you can wait several weeks for a letter from abroad with verified documents. It depends on the speed of delivery and the willingness of officials on the other hand. And also on whether you make a mistake. Therefore, it is better to leave this work to someone who will take care of it safely.
Our experts will discuss all the details with you and ensure a rapid course of superlegalization. You will have verified documents in your hands as soon as possible. This will save you a lot of money and time, which you can spend on more interesting activities.