Australian Affidavits

Australian Affidavits

An affidavit is a written statement setting out a person's evidence, that is, information that tends to prove or disprove a fact to present evidence in court or other legal proceedings. The person making the affidavit must take an oath (a sworn commitment based on religious belief) or make an affirmation (a secular sworn commitment) that the contents of the affidavit are true and correct. It is generally an offence to swear to or affirm false information.

A Diplomatic Officer is required to administer the oath or affirmation on an Australian affidavit.

• Your lawyer must provide clear instructions as to what they need in and on the affidavit. We can't provide legal information or advice.
• Before you bring an affidavit to us, contact your lawyer. Get their advice and specific instructions.
• If an affidavit contains attachments or is multiple pages, we will bind the pages together. Some receiving authorities don't accept bound documents. Ask the receiving authorities if they'll accept it.

More information on Affidavits can be found at Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia and Smartraveller Notarial services overseas.

 

Is an appointment required?

Yes, an in-person appointment is required to witness an affidavit.

Note: A Diplomatic Officer is required for all affidavits, so flexibility with appointment days and times is required. We may only be able to offer you limited appointment options.

 

How to book an appointment?

All notarial appointments are held in Geneva only (not Bern) on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. The current waiting time for an appointment is 1-2 weeks - please advise us if your request is urgent.

Appointments can only be made by sending an email to: [email protected] (click this email link to auto-populate the below required information in your email).

Please provide the following in your email:

1. Title your email subject with: “Last name”, “First Name” – Notarial Appointment
2. Your full name, contact phone number and email address
3. The full name of anyone else requiring the same service
4. Preferred 'day' (Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday) and ‘time’ (morning/afternoon preference)
5. Where you will be coming from
6. Specific details of the notarial service you require – Full instructions from the requesting authority must be provided before an appointment can be scheduled - please attach these details to your appointment request email.

 

What to bring to your appointment?

• Your valid passport.
• Clear instructions from your lawyer as to what they need in and on the affidavit.
• Completed affidavit form/statement but DO NOT sign before your appointment.
• Your credit/debit card for payment – Fees and payment methods