Divorce certificate notarization (离婚证公证)

What this notarization certifies

The notary office certifies that a copy of your divorce certificate is a true and lawful copy of the original. It is requested abroad for remarriage, visa applications and property or custody proceedings that turn on your marital history.

Who can apply in Shanghai

Applicants whose registered or habitual residence is in Shanghai, or whose divorce certificate was issued by Shanghai civil affairs authorities.

Documents to prepare

• Notarization application form (filled in and signed at the notary office)
• Resident ID card or another valid ID — Chinese or foreign passport, or a Taiwan / Hong Kong / Macao travel permit and ID
• Household register (hukou booklet), or a household registration certificate issued by the police
• Proof of living in Shanghai, if your hukou is registered elsewhere — Shanghai residence permit, a property deed or lease in your or a close relative's name, or an employer letter
• The divorce certificate together with the divorce agreement
• Guardian's ID and proof of guardianship, if the applicant is a minor or lacks full legal capacity
• Agent's ID and a letter of authorization, if someone applies on your behalf

Requirements vary case by case — the coordinator confirms your personal checklist before you visit the notary office.

Fee and timeline

• Notary fee: ¥100 (about $15) per certificate
• Extra certificate copies: ¥10 (about $1.50) each
• Acceptance review: up to 3 working days; the certificate is normally issued within 15 working days of acceptance

Fees follow Shanghai's published government price standard (2017/2018). The coordinator confirms the current fee and the certified-translation cost before you commit to anything.

Using it abroad

China joined the Hague Apostille Convention in November 2023. For use in a member country — the US, Japan, most of Europe and many others — the notarial certificate receives an apostille and needs no embassy legalization. For non-member countries, consular legalization still applies. Tell the coordinator the destination country and we arrange the correct chain, including a certified translation into the language the receiving authority requires.