Name notarization — former names and aliases (姓名公证)

What this notarization certifies

The notary office certifies the facts of your name — that a former name, alias, or differently spelled name refers to the same person. It resolves the classic overseas problem of documents issued under different names or romanizations refusing to match.

Who can apply in Shanghai

Applicants whose registered or habitual residence is in Shanghai.

Documents to prepare

• Notarization application form (filled in and signed at the notary office)
• Resident ID card or Chinese passport
• 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
• Evidence of the former name or alias — unless your household register already records it
• 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: market-priced for this item — the notary office quotes it; the coordinator confirms before you commit
• 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.