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In Saudi Arabia, affidavits and statutory declarations are official statements used to certify facts for civil, family, and commercial matters. These instruments are produced and witnessed under the supervision of the Ministry of Justice through the Notary Public system, known as كتابة عدل. A sworn statement is typically prepared and signed in the presence of a registered notary and may require translation for non-Arabic recipients.
For documents intended for use outside Saudi Arabia, legalization or authentication by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) is usually required after notarization. This ensures the document is recognized by foreign authorities and courts. If you are unsure, engaging a lawyer or a qualified legal counsel can help ensure compliance with all formal requirements.
Source guidance: Notaries in Saudi Arabia handle affidavits and sworn declarations under MOJ supervision, with MOFA providing legalization for international use. https://www.moj.gov.sa
When handling affidavits and statutory declarations in Saudi Arabia, certain scenarios demand professional legal assistance to avoid errors and delays.
Saudi Arabia relies on a framework of authorities and regulations to govern affidavits and statutory declarations. The following are key sources that practitioners reference in practice:
Recent reforms emphasize digital services and streamlined authentication to support cross-border transactions as part of Saudi Arabia's digital government efforts. For practical guidance, consult the official sources below.
Source guidance on notaries and document legalization can be found on MOJ and MOFA official pages. MOJ • MOFA
An affidavit is a sworn statement prepared and witnessed by a registered notary. It certifies facts for civil or commercial matters and may be used in court or with government agencies. For foreign use, MOFA legalization is typically required.
No law requires a lawyer to draft an affidavit, but a lawyer can ensure accuracy, proper language, and compliance with MOJ and MOFA requirements. A lawyer can also help with translations and timely submissions.
Notarization usually takes 1-2 business days after document readiness and clarity. Simple statements may be completed the same day, while complex declarations may require additional review by the notary.
Fees vary by notary office, document length, and whether translation or MOFA legalization is needed. Expect additional charges for translations and legalization steps. Always obtain a written fee estimate before proceeding.
Local court submissions generally require Arabic. If the original affidavit is in another language, a certified Arabic translation may be required by the receiving authority or court.
Usually yes, but international use requires MOFA legalization after notarization. Some jurisdictions may have additional requirements, such as translations or apostille, depending on bilateral agreements.
You typically need proof of identity, personal details of the declarant, and subject matter documents (for example, property deeds, marriage certificates, or death certificates). The notary will specify any additional items needed for your case.
Validity depends on the purpose and the receiving authority. Some authorities require updates if facts change, while others accept a dated affidavit if the facts remain accurate.
In Saudi practice, the term statutory declaration is less common; the equivalent is an إقرار رسمي or affidavit. Both require proper witnessing and may need MOFA legalization for international use.
Check the notary's official seal and signature and verify registration with the MOJ. If the document is for international use, ensure MOFA legalization has been completed.
Notify the notary immediately and request a correction or a new affidavit. If the document was submitted to a court, you may need to file an amendment or present corrected documentation.
Some steps may be initiated online through official platforms, but notarization typically requires in-person signing at a registered notary. Check with the local writing office for available online processes.
These official resources provide authoritative guidance on affidavits, notaries, and document legalization:
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Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.
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