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Guide · 8 April 2026 · 2 min read

How to certify a true copy of your document in Singapore

A certified true copy proves a photocopy is identical to the original. Here's what the process actually looks like.

Key points

  • Bring the original, a photocopy and photo ID.
  • A Notary Public checks the copy, signs and stamps it, and adds a Notarial Certificate.
  • Fees: $10 for the first page, $5 per extra page, $75 per certificate, plus $87.20 if SAL authentication is needed.
  • Allow 15 to 30 minutes at the office, or 1 to 2 working days with SAL authentication.
In this guide

Schools, employers and foreign authorities often ask for a "certified true copy" of your passport, NRIC or qualifications instead of the original. Here is how it works.

What to bring

  • The original document. The notary must see it in person.
  • A photocopy, though many firms will copy it for you.
  • Photo ID: NRIC, passport or FIN card.
  • Details of who asked for the copy and exactly what they asked for.

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The steps

  1. 1Book a short appointment. Many firms take walk-ins, and some offer doorstep collection.
  2. 2Bring the original and your ID.
  3. 3The notary checks the copy against the original, signs and stamps it, and attaches a Notarial Certificate.
  4. 4If the document needs SAL authentication, the firm arranges it, usually by the next working day.

Good to know

Several documents for the same recipient can often share one Notarial Certificate. Ask the firm, as it saves $75 per extra certificate.

Fees

First page of each document

Fee: $10

Each extra page

Fee: $5

Notarial Certificate

Fee: $75

SAL authentication, if needed

Fee: $87.20

How long it takes

About 15 to 30 minutes at the office. With SAL authentication, allow 1 to 2 working days.

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