Expert DIRCO Apostille Services
within 7-15 Business Days
How DIRCO Apostille Processing Works
The Process
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Document Preparation
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Confirm the type of document (original or notarised copy).
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Ensure it has been correctly certified if required.
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Submission to DIRCO
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We submit your documents directly to DIRCO for authentication.
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Apostille Issuance
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DIRCO attaches an apostille certificate, confirming the document’s validity for international use.
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Collection & Delivery
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Once issued, we securely collect and deliver your apostilled documents, either locally or internationally.
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Processing Time
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Expected timeframe: 7–15 business days.
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With our assistance: We help reduce waiting time and ensure the process moves as efficiently as possible.
What is DIRCO Apostille
An Apostille Certificate is an official verification issued by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) in South Africa. It authenticates South African documents for use in countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention (1961).
This process confirms the legitimacy of a document, such as a birth certificate, marriage certificate, or academic qualification, so that it will be legally recognised abroad.
You may require an apostille for:
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Immigration or visa applications
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International employment contracts
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Foreign university applications
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Business and trade registrations abroad
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Adoption or legal proceedings overseas
We assist individuals and businesses in expediting the apostille process through DIRCO. With our expertise, we ensure your documents are prepared correctly, submitted on time, and collected promptly.
By letting us handle the process, you avoid unnecessary delays and the hassle of navigating government queues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is an Apostille Certificate?
An apostille is a form of authentication issued to documents so they can be legally recognised in foreign countries that are signatories of the Hague Apostille Convention.
2. Which documents can be apostilled?
Common documents include:
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Birth, marriage, and death certificates
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Police Clearance Certificates
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Academic qualifications
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Court orders and legal documents
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Power of attorney or business documents
3. How long does the DIRCO apostille process take?
The official timeframe is 4–6 weeks, depending on workload and backlogs at DIRCO. With our assistance, we monitor and follow up to ensure your documents are processed as quickly as possible.
4. Can I apostille documents if I am abroad?
Yes. You can courier your documents to South Africa, and we will handle the submission and collection on your behalf.
5. What if the country I’m going to is not part of the Hague Apostille Convention?
If the destination country is not a signatory, your documents will require full legalisation through DIRCO and the relevant embassy/consulate. We can guide you through this process as well.
6. Do you issue apostilles yourselves?
No. Apostilles are issued only by DIRCO. We assist with preparation, submission, follow-up, and delivery of your documents.
7. Do apostilles expire?
The apostille certificate itself does not expire, but the receiving authority may require a recently issued supporting document (e.g., birth certificate not older than 3 months).
