---
title: Should I sign my document before a Commissioner, Notary Public, or Lawyer?
description: "## Intoduction Understanding whether to sign your document before a Commissioner for Oaths, Notary Public, or Singapore advocate is crucial for legal validity. This guide clarifies roles, use cases, and key considerations to help you decide. ## Roles Explained -…"
url: "https://help.law.com.sg/faq/should-i-sign-my-document-before-a-commissioner-or-notary-public/"
updated: "2026-07-20"
category: Commissioner for Oaths
---

# Should I sign my document before a Commissioner, Notary Public, or Lawyer?

## Intoduction

Understanding whether to sign your document before a Commissioner for Oaths, Notary Public, or Singapore advocate is crucial for legal validity. This guide clarifies roles, use cases, and key considerations to help you decide.

## Roles Explained

- **Commissioner for Oaths**
  - Appointed lawyers who administer oaths/affirmations for documents **used in Singapore** (e.g., affidavits, statutory declarations).
  - *Example:* Swearing a statutory declaration for a local court case.
- **Notary Public**
  - Senior lawyers authorized to certify documents **for international use**. Their seal/signature requires further authentication,i.e. Apostille issued by Singapore Academy of Law (SAL).
  - *Example:* Notarizing a power of attorney for use in the U.S.
- **Singapore Advocate & Solicitor**
  - Can witness signatures for agreements but does not replace a Commissioner/Notary unless specifically appointed.
  - *Example:* Witnessing a business contract signed in Singapore.

## When to Use Each Authority

| **Document Type** | **Use in Singapore** | **Use Overseas** |
| --- | --- | --- |
| **Statutory Declaration** | Commissioner for Oaths | Notary Public + Apostille* |
| **Affidavit** | Commissioner for Oaths | Notary Public + Apostille* |
| **Agreement/Contract** | Advocate & Solicitor (as witness) | Notary Public (if signed in SG) + Apostille* |
| **Power of Attorney** | Advocate & Solicitor | Notary Public + Apostille* |

**Notes:**

- *Apostille:* Required for Hague Convention countries, including Singapore, China. Other countries may need consular legalization, eg. UAE.
- **Recipient Requirements Always Prevail:** Confirm with the receiving party/authority.

## Key Considerations

- **Jurisdiction Matters**
  - Singapore law governs local documents; international use often requires notarization. In Singapore, Notarial Certificate and Apostille are mandatory.
- **Document Type**
  - Affidavits/statutory declarations **must** go to a Commissioner for local (Singapore) use.
  - Agreements may only need a solicitor’s witness unless overseas use demands a Notary.
- **Legalization Needs**
  - Overseas documents notarized in Singapore may require additional steps (e.g., Legalisation at the Foreign Embassies in Singapore).

## Common Scenarios

1. **Statutory Declaration for Overseas University Application**
   - Sign before a Notary Public → Obtain apostille from Singapore Academy of Law.
2. **Business Contract with a Malaysian Company**
   - If signed in Singapore for use in Malaysia: Sign before a Notary Public → Obtain apostille from SAL.
3. **Affidavit for Singapore Court**
   - Use a Commissioner for Oaths; no apostille needed.

## Important Reminders

- Not all lawyers are Notaries. Confirm their credentials.
- Apostilles/Legalization can take time—plan ahead.
- When in doubt, consult the recipient or a legal professional.

**Final Tip:** Always double-check with the document recipient to avoid delays or rejection. Laws and requirements vary globally, and exceptions may apply.