Guidance

Notarial and documentary services guide for Malaysia

Commonwealth countries have no powers under the Commissioners for Oaths Act 1889 to undertake notarial acts, administer oaths or take affidavits.

Overview

We are unable to carry out notarial acts under the Commissioner of Oaths Act 1889, and on instruction from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office in London.

This includes certifying documents as true copies of originals, administering oaths or taking affidavits. For these or other notarial acts, or the legalising of documents, approach a Notary/Commissioner of Oaths, or request the issuing authority attest the validity of the documents.

Letters we provide

If you are trying to access a service from a local authority and have been asked to obtain a certificate from the High Commission, you can download and print one of our stamped and signed letters confirming that we do not offer the service in Commonwealth countries.

This service is for British nationals who require a notarial letter.

Confirmation that we cannot provide notarial services, certificates or certified copies of documents.

Notarial Acts letter is available for download to confirm we do not offer these services in Malaysia; there is no charge for this letter.

Confirmation that we cannot provide certificates of no-impediment (CNI)

The UK doesn’t issue certificates of no impediment (CNI) for marriages in Commonwealth countries. You’ll need to explain this if you’re asked to provide a CNI or a similar document to prove you’re allowed to marry.

Confirmation of the British government having no objection to dual nationality

Some Malaysia government offices require a letter from the British High Commission confirming that the UK government has no objection to dual nationality.

The British government has no objection to British nationals holding more than one nationality or obtaining the citizenship of another country or citizens of another country applying for British nationality. A dual nationality letter is available for download to confirm we do not offer these services in Malaysia; there is no charge for this letter.

Data protection

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office holds and uses data for purposes notified to the Information Commissioner under the Data Protection Act 1998. Such personal data may be disclosed to other UK government departments and public authorities.

Disclaimer

This information is provided as a general guide and is based upon information provided to the embassy by the relevant local authorities and may be subject to change at any time with little or no notice. Accordingly the FCDO and the British embassy will not be liable for any inaccuracies in this information. British nationals wishing to obtain any further information must contact the relevant local authority.

Published 12 April 2013
Last updated 9 April 2024 + show all updates
  1. Added letters to confirm we do not offer notarial services in Malaysia.

  2. The British High Commission in Kuala Lumpur is unable to carry out notarial services as British consular officers in Commonwealth countries have no powers under the Commissioners for Oaths Act 1889 to undertake notarial acts, administer oaths or take affidavits which will be effectual in the United Kingdom. A standard letter is available for download to confirm we do not offer these services in Malaysia; there is no charge for this letter.

  3. Updated notarial and documentary services provided by the High Commission.

  4. Notarial and documentary services have resumed at the High Commission.

  5. Updated operational guidance during this Covid-19 pandemic.

  6. We have updated information on Consular procedure and payment methods.

  7. Spelling corrections

  8. Link to online appointment booking system added.

  9. We no longer provide the service of witnessing the signing of pension forms.

  10. First published.