Notarization in India: Process, Fees, and Importance
Every important legal or property transaction in India involves one crucial step — notarization. Whether you’re signing a sale deed, drafting an affidavit, or creating a power of attorney, notarization ensures your document is valid, verified, and protected against fraud.
In this detailed guide, you’ll understand what notarization means, its types, the complete process of how to notarize a document in India and how notary fees are determined — all written in simple terms for easy understanding.
What Is Notarization?
Notary Meaning in Tamil: நோட்டரி – அரசு அங்கீகாரம் பெற்ற ஆவணச் சான்றிடுபவர்
Notarization is the process of verifying and certifying a document by a notary public — an authorized legal officer appointed by the government. The notary ensures that the person signing the document is who they claim to be, has signed it voluntarily, and understands its content.
Once verified, the notary adds their signature, stamp, and official seal, giving the document legal authenticity.
Why Is Notarization or Notary Attestation Important?
Notarization is more than just stamping paper — it legally safeguards all parties involved. Here’s why it matters:
✅ Prevents forgery and fraud: The notary verifies the signer’s identity before certification.
✅ Ensures voluntary consent: Protects against claims of coercion or misunderstanding.
✅ Adds credibility: A notarized document is legally recognized by courts and government departments.
✅ Builds trust: It assures both parties that the agreement is legitimate and verified.
Common Documents That Require Notarization
In India, notary attestation is commonly required for:
Affidavits and declarations
Power of Attorney (POA)
Loan or mortgage agreements
Business contracts and MOUs
Loan or mortgage agreements
Business contracts and MOUs
Educational certificate copies
Legal forms, ID proofs, and address proofs
While not all documents legally require notarization, it is highly recommended for any agreement involving legal or financial commitments.
Types of Notarization in India
There are different types of notarization depending on the document’s purpose. Each type ensures authenticity in a specific way:
1. Acknowledgment
Used when a person confirms they have voluntarily signed a document.
Example: Property deeds, partnership agreements.
2. Jurat
The notary administers an oath or affirmation that the contents are true.
Example: Affidavits, sworn statements.
3. Certified True Copy
A notary certifies that a copy of a document is true and matches the original.
Example: Passports, academic certificates.
4. Oaths and Affirmations
The notary witnesses the signer taking an oath, used in legal or official declarations.
Example: Witness statements, legal depositions.
How to notarize a document in India:
Notary attestation plays a crucial role in verifying the authenticity of documents. If you planning for notary attestation of marriage certificate, notary attestation of degree certificate, you need to get all these documents:
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Visit an authorized notary public – You can find one near a court complex, law office, or through online platforms.
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Provide valid ID proof – Such as Aadhaar, PAN, or Passport.
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Sign in the notary’s presence – The notary verifies your identity and witnesses your signature.
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Verification and sealing – The notary signs, stamps, and adds a government seal.
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Pay the notarization fee – Based on the document type and value.
Once sealed, your document becomes legally notarized and accepted for official use.
Notarization Attestation Fees and Costs in India
The notarization fee in India is governed by the Notaries Rules, 1956. While charges vary by state, the following are general guideline rates for property and legal documents:
Document Value/Type |
Typical Notary Fee (₹) |
Instruments up to (₹) 10,000 |
(₹) 35 |
Above (₹) 10000 and up to (₹) 25000 |
(₹) 75 |
Above (₹) 25000 and up to (₹) 50,000 |
(₹) 110 |
Above (₹) 50000 |
(₹) 150 or more |
Affidavits/ Power of Attorney |
(₹) 15- (₹) 50/page |
Certified copies |
(₹) 10-(₹) 50 / page |
These are reference rates; the exact amount may differ depending on your state, document type, and notary’s location.
Factors Affecting Notarization Fees
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Document Type: Complex legal or property documents attract higher fees.
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Location: Notary charges in metropolitan areas (like Chennai or Mumbai) are generally higher than in smaller towns.
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Nature of Service: Fees may differ for physical vs. digital notarization.
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Urgency & Travel: Some notaries charge extra for on-site or urgent notarization requests.
Digital and e-Notarization in India
Technology has made notarization easier than ever. Online notarization (or e-notarization) allows you to get your documents verified digitally using video calls and digital signatures.
Benefits of e-Notarization:
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Remote verification without physical presence
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Faster processing with secure digital records
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Legally valid under the Information Technology Act, 2000
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Ideal for NRIs, freelancers, or people abroad
You can find such services easily by searching “online notarization near me” or through authorized legal service portals.
Notarization vs Registration
While both are legal procedures, they serve different purposes.
Aspect |
Notarization |
Registration |
Conducted by |
Notary Public |
Sub-registrar office |
Purpose |
Verifies authenticity |
Records legal ownership |
Legal Power |
Prevents Fraud |
Makes it legally binding |
Example |
Affidavits, agreements |
Sale deeds, gift deeds |
Note: A notarized document authenticates the signature, but registration is still mandatory for property transfers and ownership proof.
How to Find Notarization Services Near You
Finding a notary near you is simple. You can:
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Visit your local District Court or Sub-Registrar Office
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Search “notarization services near me” on Google
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Contact law firms or documentation agencies
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Use official government portals listing licensed notaries
Always check the notary’s license number and ensure they are registered under the Notaries Act, 1952.
Common Myths About Notarization in India
Myth 1: Notarization automatically makes a document legally binding.
➡️ Fact: It authenticates the document but doesn’t replace registration.
Myth 2: Any advocate can notarize documents.
➡️ Fact: Only licensed notaries appointed by the government can do so.
Myth 3: Online notarization isn’t valid.
➡️ Fact: Digital notarization is legally accepted when performed through authorized platforms.
FAQs on Notarization in India
1. What is notarization of documents?
It’s the process of verifying a document’s authenticity and the signer’s identity through a government-approved notary public.
2. Is notarization mandatory for all documents?
Not all, but it is essential for legal, property, and power of attorney documents.
3. How much does notarization cost in India?
Depending on the document and value, fees range from ₹10 to ₹200 for most cases.
4. Can notarization be done online?
Yes, e-notarization is valid under Indian law using digital verification.
5. How do I verify a notary public?
You can check their registration under the Notaries Act, 1952 or on state legal department websites.
What is Notary Attestation Stamp?
A notary attestation stamp is an official seal placed by a licensed notary public to verify the authenticity of documents. It confirms that the document has been checked, signed in the presence of the notary, and approved for legal use. This stamp is commonly required for attesting educational certificates, marriage certificates, affidavits, property papers, and other legal documents for both domestic and international purposes.
Conclusion: Notarization in India - Process, Fees, and Importance
Notarization in India plays a vital role in ensuring your documents are genuine, secure, and legally recognized. Whether you’re finalizing a property deal or creating a business agreement, notarization protects your rights and minimizes the risk of fraud.
Always choose a licensed notary public — either offline or online — to ensure your papers are legally sound and accepted by all authorities.
Need reliable document verification? Look for certified notarization services near you to get your papers stamped, sealed, and secure.
