How To Become a Notary Public in Hong Kong

Becoming a Notary Public in Hong Kong is a detailed process that involves several steps and adherence to specific requirements. A Notary Public in Hong Kong primarily deals with the preparation and authentication of documents for use abroad. The role is recognized internationally, and the services of a Notary Public are often essential in verifying the authenticity of documents and transactions.

Steps to Becoming a Notary Public in Hong Kong

1. Application for Registrar’s Certificate: The first step is applying for a Registrar’s Certificate. This involves sending a letter (a sample is provided by the High Court) to the Master’s Clerks Office in Hong Kong, along with a payment of HK$125​​.
2. Motion Preparation and Application Fee: Applicants must prepare a motion and necessary documents for the appointment application and pay an application fee of HK$1,135​​.
3. Case Number and Filing: Obtain a case number for the appointment application from the High Court Registry and file the original motion with all necessary documents​​.
4. Service of Motion and Affirmation of Service: The motion and accompanying documents must be served on the Secretary for Justice and the Society of Notaries, followed by filing an affirmation of service within 7 days of service of the motion​​.
5. Judicial Consideration: The application will be reviewed by a Designated Judge​​.
6. Appointment and Registration: Once all requirements are met and the court appoints you as a notary public, a letter notifying the appointment is issued along with two copies of blank signature cards​​.
7. Registration Fee and Certificate Collection: Pay a registration fee of HK$360 and collect the Certificate of Appointment from the Master’s Clerks Office​​.
8. Examination: Applicants must pass an examination that covers topics like Bills of Exchange and Notarial Practices. The exam fee is HK$10,000, and it’s conducted every few years​​.
9. Letter of Support: Obtaining signatures from 30 professionals in Hong Kong, certifying your qualification to become a notary, is also a prerequisite. This includes signatures from persons of good standing, active legal professionals, and judicial officers​​.

Notary Public Services and Responsibilities

1. Document Authentication: Notaries public prepare, execute, and validate legal documents for overseas use, ensuring the authenticity of the documents and the identity of the signatories​​.
2. Various Legal and Commercial Documents: This includes commercial contracts, wills, real estate transactions, personal documents for overseas use, and more​​.
3. Notarization Process: The process involves verifying the identities of signatories and the integrity of the documents. The documents are then marked with a seal or stamp, registered with the High Court of Hong Kong​​.

Additional Information

• Annual Renewal: A Notary Public in Hong Kong must renew their practising status annually​​.
• Fees: The fee for notarial services depends on the complexity of the matter​​.
• International Recognition: As a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, notary public services in Hong Kong are recognized worldwide​​.

In conclusion, the path to becoming a Notary Public in Hong Kong is rigorous and requires a significant commitment to meet the stringent qualifications and examinations. The role itself is crucial in the legal landscape, particularly in the context of international document verification and authentication.