Affidavit of Support Notarization Services in Bangkok
Navigating the legal requirements for documents like an Affidavit of Support can be complex, especially when dealing with international processes or visa applications. At PS Law & Business, we provide professional and efficient notarization services for Affidavits of Support to foreigners in Bangkok and throughout Thailand. Our experienced team understands the importance of correctly notarized documents and is here to assist you every step of the way.
What is an Affidavit of Support?
An Affidavit of Support is a legal document in which an individual (the sponsor) commits to providing financial support to another person, typically a family member, who is applying for a visa or immigration benefits. This document demonstrates to the relevant authorities that the applicant will not become a public charge in the destination country. It is commonly required for visa applications to countries like the United States.
Why Do You Need Notarization for an Affidavit of Support?
Notarization is the process by which a licensed Notary Public or a Notarial Services Attorney in Thailand verifies the identity of the person signing the document and witnesses their signature. For an Affidavit of Support, notarization adds a layer of authenticity and legal validity. Many foreign embassies and immigration authorities require Affidavits of Support to be notarized to ensure the document's integrity and the sponsor's commitment.
In Thailand, while the concept of a "Notary Public" as understood in some Western countries differs, registered Notarial Services Attorneys are authorized by the Lawyers Council of Thailand to perform notarial acts, including the notarization of affidavits and other legal documents.
Our Affidavit of Support Notarization Services for Foreigners
PS Law & Business offers comprehensive notarization services for Affidavits of Support, specifically tailored to meet the needs of English-speaking foreigners residing in or outside of Thailand. Our services include:
- Guidance on Document Preparation: While we cannot provide legal advice on the content of your Affidavit of Support, we can guide you on the general requirements for notarization.
- Identity Verification: We will carefully verify the identity of the signatory as required by notarial procedures.
- Witnessing of Signature: Our Notarial Services Attorney will witness your signature on the Affidavit of Support.
- Notarial Certificate: We will affix the necessary notarial seal and certificate to your document, confirming its proper execution.
- Assistance with Legalization (if required): Should your notarized Affidavit of Support require further legalization by the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs or relevant embassies for use abroad, we can provide guidance and assistance with this process.
Why Choose PS Law & Business for Your Notarization Needs?
- Expertise in Serving Foreigners: We specialize in providing legal and notarial services to the expatriate community in Thailand.
- English-Speaking Staff: Our team is proficient in English, ensuring clear communication throughout the process.
- Convenient Bangkok Location: Our office is easily accessible in Bangkok.
- Professional and Reliable Service: We are committed to providing accurate, efficient, and trustworthy notarial services.
- Understanding of International Requirements: We have experience with documents intended for use in various countries and can help ensure your Affidavit of Support meets the necessary notarial standards.
The Notarization Process
The process for notarizing an Affidavit of Support at PS Law & Business generally involves the following steps:
- Contact Us: Reach out to our office to schedule an appointment and discuss your specific needs.
- Document Review: You may be asked to provide the unsigned Affidavit of Support for our review to ensure it is ready for notarization.
- Personal Appearance: The person signing the Affidavit of Support (the sponsor) must appear in person before our Notarial Services Attorney.
- Identification: Present a valid original passport or other government-issued photo identification for verification.
- Signing: Sign the Affidavit of Support in the presence of the Notarial Services Attorney.
- Notarization: The Notarial Services Attorney will complete the notarial certificate, sign, and affix their official seal to the document.
It is crucial that the document is signed only in the presence of the Notarial Services Attorney. Do not sign it beforehand.
Disclaimer:
PS Law & Business provides notarial services in accordance with Thai law. We are not authorized to provide legal advice regarding the specific content or legal implications of your Affidavit of Support for the jurisdiction in which it will be used. We recommend consulting with an immigration attorney or the relevant authorities in the destination country for advice on completing the Affidavit of Support form itself.
Contact Us for Affidavit of Support Notarization
If you require notarization services for an Affidavit of Support or have any questions about the process, please contact PS Law & Business today. We are here to provide you with professional and reliable assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is an Affidavit of Support?
A: An Affidavit of Support is a legal document where a sponsor agrees to financially support an applicant, often for a visa or immigration. It shows the applicant won't be a public burden.
Q: Why does my Affidavit of Support need to be notarized?
A: Notarization verifies the signer's identity and signature, adding authenticity. Many embassies and immigration bodies require it for Affidavits of Support.
Q: Can PS Law & Business help me fill out the Affidavit of Support form?
A: While we can provide general guidance on notarization requirements, we cannot offer legal advice on how to complete the substantive content of the Affidavit of Support form itself. For this, you should consult with an immigration lawyer or the relevant embassy/authority.
Q: What documents do I need to bring for notarization?
A: You will need to bring the unsigned Affidavit of Support and your original valid passport or other government-issued photo identification.
Q: How long does the notarization process take?
A: The actual notarization appointment is usually quick, provided all documents are in order and you have the necessary identification. However, it's best to schedule an appointment in advance.
Q: Do I need to be in Thailand for the notarization?
A: Yes, the person signing the Affidavit of Support must physically appear before our Notarial Services Attorney in Thailand for the notarization to be performed.
Q: What if my Affidavit of Support needs to be used in a country that requires an Apostille?
A: Thailand is not a signatory to the Hague Apostille Convention. If your document needs to be used in a country that requires an Apostille, it will typically need to be notarized and then undergo a separate legalization process through the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs and potentially the embassy of the destination country. PS Law & Business can provide guidance on this legalization process.
Q: How much does Affidavit of Support notarization cost?
A: Please contact PS Law & Business directly for information on our current fees for notarial services.
External Links
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services - Form I-864, Affidavit of Support
- Royal Thai Embassy - Legalization of Documents (General Information)
- Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Legalization Division (Note: Specific link may vary; this is a general MFA link)
