How to Get a DIRCO Apostille in South Africa (2025 Guide)
Introduction
If you need to use a South African document overseas, there’s a good chance you’ll need an Apostille Certificate. In this 2025 guide, we explain exactly how to get a DIRCO Apostille in South Africa, and how Benaters – trusted notaries public and lawyers based in Johannesburg and Sandton – can help make the process quick and easy.
What Is a DIRCO Apostille?
An Apostille certifies the origin of a South African public document, so it can be legally recognised in other countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention. In South Africa, Apostilles are issued by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO).
Why Use Benaters?
At Benaters, we specialise in DIRCO Apostille services, offering expert support across all document types – from birth certificates to degrees and powers of attorney.
We assist individuals, families, and businesses in Johannesburg, Sandton, Gauteng, and across South Africa. As a registered Notary Public, we guide your documents from preparation through to final Apostille certification – or embassy legalisation if required.
📍 Visit Our Sandton Office – View on Google Maps
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your Apostille Certificate
1. Government-Issued Documents
Examples: Birth/marriage/death certificates, police clearance certificates, letters of non-impediment, divorce decrees
✅ These go straight to DIRCO for Apostille.
✅ No notarisation or court steps needed.
✅ Benaters can submit and collect these for you.
2. University Degrees (Issued by Public Institutions)
Must be verified by SAQA (South African Qualifications Authority)
Once verified, submitted to DIRCO for Apostille
✅ Benaters manages the Apostille submission on your behalf.
3. Medical Reports
Verified by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA)
Then submitted to DIRCO for Apostille
✅ Benaters can submit and collect these from DIRCO for you.
4. Non-Government Documents
Examples: Powers of attorney, academic transcripts, IDs, passports, company documents
Must be notarised by a Notary Public
Then Authenticated or Apostilled at the High Court
Then submitted to DIRCO for further Authentication
✅ Benaters handles:
- In-house notarisation
- High Court Apostille or Authentication
- DIRCO processing
5. For Countries Not in the Apostille Convention
If your destination country is not part of the Hague Convention, you will also need to submit your documents to that country’s embassy or consulate after DIRCO.
✅ We assist with embassy legalisation too – so you're covered either way.
Why Clients Trust Benaters
✔ In-house Notary Public in Johannesburg and Sandton
✔ Full Apostille management – including DIRCO and High Court
✔ Fast turnaround
✔ Transparent pricing
✔ Local and international clients welcome
✔ Over 290+ Google 5-star reviews
👉 View our Notary Services
FAQ: Apostilles & Legalisation
How long does it take to get a DIRCO Apostille?
Typically 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the document and DIRCO’s processing time.
Do I need a lawyer or notary for an Apostille?
Yes – for any private, academic, or legal documents, you’ll need a Notary Public (like Benaters) to notarise and guide you through the process.
What if I’m overseas? Can Benaters still help?
Absolutely. We work with clients across the globe and can assist via courier, email, or online consultation.
Is Benaters registered with DIRCO?
Benaters is a recognised legal and notarial firm. We have extensive experience working with DIRCO, SAQA, HPCSA, and South African embassies. Benaters is a DIRCO agent.
In Summary
Getting a DIRCO Apostille in South Africa doesn’t have to be confusing or time-consuming. Whether you’re preparing to emigrate, work overseas, get married abroad, or handle legal matters internationally, Benaters is here to simplify the process.
We’re more than a law firm – we’re your Apostille agent.