If you’re living in Europe and need to sign a document for use in the United States, you may be wondering whether you need to visit a U.S. embassy or consulate. The good news is that in many cases, you don’t.
Remote Online Notarization (RON) allows eligible U.S. documents to be notarized online through a secure video meeting with a commissioned U.S. notary. This means you can complete the notarization from your home in France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Portugal, the Netherlands, or almost anywhere else in the world.
What Is Remote Online Notarization?
Remote Online Notarization is a legal process where a notary verifies your identity, witnesses your signature, and notarizes your document through a secure online platform.
Instead of the notary traveling to your office, everything happens digitally. You’ll verify your identity, connect with the notary by video, sign electronically, and receive your completed notarized document—all without leaving home.
What Types of Documents Can Be Notarized Online?
Many documents intended for use in the United States can be notarized remotely, including:
- Powers of Attorney
- Real estate documents
- Deeds
- Affidavits
- Trust documents
- Business agreements
- Consent forms
- Estate planning documents
Some documents may have additional state or agency requirements, so it’s always worth checking before your appointment.
Do I Need to Visit a U.S. Embassy?
For many people, the answer is no.
Embassies and consulates often have limited appointment availability, require travel, and may only offer notarial services on certain days. Remote Online Notarization is frequently a faster and more convenient alternative.
What Do I Need?
To complete an online notarization, you’ll typically need:
- A valid government-issued photo ID
- A stable internet connection
- A computer or smartphone with a camera and microphone
- The document you need notarized
Depending on the platform, you may also complete identity verification before your appointment.
Is It Legal?
Yes. Online notarizations performed by commissioned U.S. remote online notaries are legally valid under the laws of the commissioning state.
These notarizations are widely accepted throughout the United States, although individual agencies or foreign jurisdictions may have their own document requirements.
What If My Document Needs an Apostille?
If your document is used internationally, you may also need an apostille after notarization. Whether an apostille is required depends on where the document will ultimately be used.
If you’re unsure, Atlas Notary can help you understand the process and determine the next steps.
Why Choose Atlas Notary?
Working with clients across Europe is what we do every day. We understand the challenges of coordinating U.S. paperwork from overseas and strive to make the process as simple as possible.
Whether you’re buying or selling U.S. property, handling estate matters, authorizing someone through a Power of Attorney, or signing business documents, we can help you complete the notarization remotely.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an online notarization take?
Most appointments take about 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the number of documents and the identity verification process. Click here to schedule an appointment.
What identification do I need?
You’ll generally need a valid government-issued photo ID that can be verified during the online session.
Can I use my phone?
Yes. Most Remote Online Notarization platforms work on modern smartphones, tablets, and computers with a camera and microphone.
Need a U.S. document notarized while living in Europe? Click here to schedule your Remote Online Notarization appointment today.