Portugal to offer apostille services through notary offices in January

Starting January 1, citizens and companies in Portugal will be able to obtain the apostille through notary offices. This measure, announced by Minister of Justice Rita Alarcão Júdice, aims to simplify the process of using Portuguese public documents abroad in countries covered by the Hague Convention.

The apostille certifies the authenticity of signatures, the capacity of the signer, and, where applicable, the authenticity of seals or stamps. This certification removes the need for additional diplomatic or consular legalization procedures. Documents eligible for apostille include those issued by ministries, courts, registries, notary offices, educational institutions, municipalities, and parish councils.

The service will be issued by the Procuradoria-Geral da República and will be free for those who can prove economic insufficiency. The Ordem dos Notários is also preparing other digital services, including a digital proof certificate expected by the end of October and remote general assemblies via notary by the end of November.