Notarizing International Documents in Florida: What You Need to Know

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When dealing with documents from another country, the notarization process in Florida can feel overwhelming. Different countries handle notarizations in very different ways, and many clients are unsure what a Florida Notary can and cannot do. At PennySmart Group, we want to make the process simple, clear, and stress-free for you.

What Florida Notaries Can and Cannot Do

In Florida, notaries have limited authority compared to notaries in other countries. For example, foreign notaries often act like attorneys, providing legal advice and drafting documents. Florida Notaries, however, are not attorneys and cannot provide legal advice. Our role is to verify identities, witness signatures, and administer oaths and acknowledgments according to Florida law.

This distinction matters if you are asked by a foreign government or agency to get a notarization that Florida law does not permit. For instance, some overseas pension programs require a “proof of life” certificate. Florida Notaries cannot certify that someone is alive—this is not a permitted act under state law. In such cases, the signer may need to contact their embassy or consulate for assistance.

Notarizing Foreign Language Documents

Many international documents are not written in English. In Florida, a notary may notarize a document written in another language as long as:

• The notarial certificate (the section the notary completes) is in English, and

• The signer understands what they are signing.

For your protection, it is always best to work with a notary who can communicate directly with you in your language. At PennySmart, we speak Spanish and English, making the process smoother and more accurate.

Apostilles in Florida

If your notarized document is going overseas, you may be told it needs an apostille. An apostille is an official certificate that authenticates the signature and seal of the Florida Notary who notarized your document.

Important to know: Notaries in Florida do not issue apostilles. Only the Florida Department of State (the “competent authority”) can issue apostilles. At PennySmart, we can guide you through the process and even help arrange courier services to simplify the step of getting your apostille.

Alternatives for Notarizing International Documents

If Florida law does not allow a notary to complete a requested act, don’t worry—you still have options. Embassies and consulates can often notarize documents for use in their home countries. This is especially helpful when foreign agencies require notarial acts that U.S. law does not recognize.

Why Choose PennySmart Group?

At PennySmart Group, we go beyond the basics:

• Mobile Notary Services – We come to you in North Port and surrounding areas.

• Remote Online Notarization (RON) – Convenient online notarizations available anywhere in Florida.

• Bilingual Service – We speak Spanish and English to better serve our community.

• Translation Assistance – We can help with accurate document translations.

• Apostille Service – Support with preparing and submitting documents for apostille certification.

Call to Action

If you’ve been searching for a “notary near me” in North Port, Florida, look no further. Whether you need a simple acknowledgment, a notarization for an international document, or help navigating the apostille process, PennySmart Group is here for you.

📞 Contact us today to schedule your appointment 941-282-5787

🌐 Visit pennysmartgroup.com to learn more about our mobile and remote notary services.

At PennySmart, we make notarization smarter, faster, and easier—so you can focus on what really matters.