DIA only apostilles a New Zealand power of attorney after it has been notarised by a New Zealand Notary Public, and the notarial certificate has to meet DIA's requirements. One missing detail and it's sent back, weeks later. We take care of both steps: we book the notary, prepare you, check the certificate, lodge it with DIA and deliver it wherever it needs to go. One all-in quote, including the notary's fee.
How it works
Notary first, then DIA. We handle every step after your document is drafted.
- Document draftedBy your lawyer or the overseas party. We do not draft or advise on it.
- We book the notaryAnd tell you exactly what to bring.
- Certificate checkedBefore anything goes to DIA.
- Apostille or authenticationDepending on the country.
- Tracked deliveryTo you, or straight to the overseas lawyer, bank or registry.
Why the notary step matters
A power of attorney can't go to DIA on its own. It must be notarised by a New Zealand Notary Public first, and a Justice of the Peace or an ordinary lawyer's certification won't do. Even when a notary is used, DIA checks the notarial certificate closely, and a missing detail means the document comes back unprocessed.
We prepare you for the appointment
Whether you sign beforehand, which ID to bring, what the notary needs to see: it depends on the document and the country it's going to. Getting it wrong means a second appointment and a second notary fee. We tell you exactly what to do before you go.
We do not draft powers of attorney
The wording must suit the overseas country and transaction, so it should come from your lawyer or the overseas lawyer, bank or registry. New Zealand enduring powers of attorney have their own legal requirements. Once the document is ready, we handle the notary, DIA and delivery.
An apostille confirms the notary's signature and seal are genuine. It does not confirm the power of attorney is legally suitable overseas.
How long does it take?
The notary appointment depends on availability. DIA then takes about 3 weeks with the standard service, or about 1 week urgent for eligible documents. Countries that need authentication can take longer. Tell us your deadline when you ask for a quote and we'll tell you straight away whether it's achievable.
What it costs
We send one all-in quote covering the notary's fee, the apostille or authentication, the government fee and delivery, so you see one price before anything is booked. See pricing.
Apostille or authentication? It depends on the country
Many common destinations accept an apostille, including the United Kingdom, Australia, the United States, Canada and most of Europe. Others, such as the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Malaysia, Thailand and Egypt, need authentication instead, which is a longer process. We confirm the right route for your exact country and handle either one. See Apostille vs Authentication.
Two of the most common overseas powers of attorney we prepare are a power of attorney for property in India and a Special Power of Attorney for the Philippines. Both are signed before a Notary Public and apostilled.
Frequently asked questions
Does a NZ power of attorney need notarising before an apostille?
Yes. A power of attorney must be notarised by a New Zealand Notary Public before DIA will apostille or authenticate it. We book the notary for you.
Can a JP witness it instead?
No. A Justice of the Peace or ordinary lawyer's certification is not accepted for this. It must be a Notary Public, which we arrange.
How much does it cost in total?
We send one all-in quote covering the notary's fee, the apostille, the government fee and delivery, before anything is booked.
How long does it take?
The notary appointment depends on availability. DIA then takes about 3 weeks, or about 1 week with the urgent service. Tell us your deadline and we will tell you whether it is achievable.
Can you draft the power of attorney?
No. We do not draft documents or give legal advice. Your lawyer or the overseas party prepares it; we handle the notary, DIA and delivery.
Can it be sent straight to the overseas lawyer or bank?
Yes. We can have it couriered directly to the overseas lawyer, bank or registry, tracked.
NZ Document Assist Limited is an independent company, not a government agency. We are not a law firm, Notary Public or licensed immigration adviser and do not give legal or immigration advice.