Overseas Documents

Justices of the Peace in New Zealand are authorised under New Zealand legislation.
We may not be able to complete documents required by other countries.
Each country has its own requirements, so we need you to find out whether we can help.

Before you meet a JP, check to see if they may process your documents.
(you could check for any written instructions, or contact the embassy, consulate or other agency)

When you go to see the JP, take any instructions you were given about completing the overseas documents.

We need to know:

  • Will the overseas agency accept documents processed by a NZ Justice of the Peace?
  • Is any special wording required?
  • What contact details the JP has to provide?

Notary Public

Your overseas document may list a Notary Public as someone who can process the papers.

In New Zealand, a notary public is a lawyer authorised by the Archbishop of Canterbury in England to officially witness signatures on legal documents, collect sworn statements, administer oaths and certify the authenticity of legal documents for use overseas.

Justices of the Peace are not Notaries Public.