Destination: China
Singapore Documents for China — Apostille Instead of Embassy Legalisation Since 2023
China joined the Hague Apostille Convention, and since 7 November 2023 Singapore documents for mainland China need an apostille from the Singapore Academy of Law instead of legalisation at the Chinese Embassy. For most documents that means one step fewer and a faster job.
Last updated 1 October 2026
- Route
- Notary + SAL apostille
- Embassy step
- Not needed since 7 Nov 2023
- Often also needed
- Chinese translation
What changed for China on 7 November 2023
| Before 7 Nov 2023 | Now | |
|---|---|---|
| Route | Notary → SAL → Chinese Embassy legalisation | Notary → SAL apostille |
| Embassy visit | Required | Not required |
Advice online written before late 2023 may still tell you to go to the Chinese Embassy. Some Chinese offices may still ask for extra items, such as a translation, so send us the checklist you were given.
Company documents for a China subsidiary or partner
Setting up a WFOE or joint venture, registering a representative office, opening a bank account or signing with a Chinese distributor usually needs:
- Certificate of incorporation and business profile
- Certificate of good standing or incumbency
- Board resolution appointing the legal representative or signatory
- Passport copies of directors or shareholders, certified
- Power of attorney for the local agent
Personal documents: degrees, marriage and birth certificates
For work permits, study, marriage registration or family matters in China: degree certificates (certified copies), Singapore marriage and birth certificates (apostilled directly), and single status declarations for marrying in China. Statutory declarations.
When a Chinese translation is also needed
Many Chinese authorities ask for documents in Chinese. Where a translation must be attached before notarisation or apostille, we add it to the same job as a translation combo, so you deal with one team. Ask the receiving office whether they need a translation done in China or accept one from Singapore.
Timeline and cost for China
- Notary visit or pickup: at your convenience, including evenings and weekends
- SAL apostille: usually 1–3 working days
- Express courier to China: 2–3 working days
- Official fees: notary fee (e.g. S$115 per signature with certificate) + S$87.20 per apostille on a notarised document
- Our fees: runner from S$25 per document, full concierge from S$249 per document — pricing
Typical express courier time; customs or remote areas may take longer.
Last updated: 1 October 2026. Rules change; we confirm the route for your document before quoting.
Questions about China
Does the apostille route apply to Hong Kong and Macau too?
My document was legalised at the Chinese Embassy before November 2023. Is it still valid?
Ready for China — apostilled, translated if needed.
Company or personal documents for mainland China, without the embassy step.