Notarial Services at Tanzania Embassies 2026

Tanzania embassies and high commissions worldwide offer notarial (consular) services to Tanzanian citizens and, in some cases, foreign nationals. These services include document authentication, witnessing signatures, administering oaths, and issuing consular certificates.

Important: Notarial services are available by appointment at most Tanzania embassies. Some embassies have dedicated consular hours (typically mornings). Always call ahead to confirm availability and bring valid identification.

Available Notarial Services

ServiceDescriptionFee (USD)
Document AuthenticationVerifying and stamping documents as authentic. Includes academic certificates, civil documents, and commercial papers.$20 - $50
Certified CopiesCertifying that a photocopy is a true copy of the original document.$10 - $20
Affidavits / Statutory DeclarationsAdministering oaths and witnessing sworn statements.$20 - $30
Power of AttorneyWitnessing and authenticating power of attorney documents for use in Tanzania.$30 - $50
Signature WitnessingWitnessing signatures on legal documents, contracts, and agreements.$15 - $25
Consular LettersLetters confirming nationality, identity, marital status, or other facts.$20 - $30
Translation CertificationCertifying that a translation is accurate (if translation is provided).$20 - $30
Consent LettersParental consent for minors travelling, marriage consent, and similar.$15 - $25

Fees may vary between embassies. Contact your specific embassy for their current fee schedule.

Common Document Types

Power of Attorney

One of the most requested services. A power of attorney allows someone in Tanzania to act on your behalf for property transactions, legal matters, or business operations. The embassy official witnesses your signature and authenticates the document.

Required: Two forms of ID (passport + one other), the drafted power of attorney document, and details of the appointed person (name, ID number, relationship).

Affidavits and Statutory Declarations

Used for immigration applications, court proceedings, insurance claims, and official declarations. The consular officer administers the oath and witnesses your signature.

Required: Passport, the drafted affidavit, and any supporting documents.

Certificate of No Impediment (CNI)

Required when marrying abroad. The embassy issues a letter confirming you are a Tanzanian citizen and free to marry. Processing typically takes 3-5 working days.

Required: Passport, statutory declaration of marital status, and proof of address.

Academic Certificate Authentication

The embassy verifies and stamps academic certificates for use in the host country. This may be required by employers or educational institutions.

Required: Original certificate, passport, and copies for embassy records.

What to Bring

For all notarial services, bring the following:

  • Valid Tanzanian passport (or national ID if acceptable)
  • The document requiring notarization (original and copies)
  • Payment in the accepted currency (usually cash in local currency or USD)
  • Appointment confirmation if required by the embassy
  • Witnesses if required (some documents need independent witnesses)
Do not sign documents before your embassy visit. The consular officer needs to witness your signature in person.

Processing Times

ServiceProcessing Time
Document authentication / certified copiesSame day (if by appointment)
Affidavits / statutory declarationsSame day
Power of attorneySame day
Certificate of No Impediment3-5 working days
Consular letters1-3 working days

Frequently Asked Questions

Some services are available to non-Tanzanians, particularly document authentication for documents intended for use in Tanzania. Contact the embassy directly to confirm which services are available for non-citizens.

Most embassies require appointments, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. Walk-ins may be accepted during consular hours but are not guaranteed. Call or email your embassy to book an appointment.

Generally no. Embassies witness, authenticate, and stamp documents but do not draft them. You should have your power of attorney, affidavit, or other legal document drafted by a lawyer before visiting the embassy.

Documents notarized by a Tanzania embassy are valid for use in Tanzania. For use in the host country, you may need additional legalization from the host country's foreign affairs ministry. Requirements vary by country and intended use of the document.

Embassy fees for witnessing and authenticating a power of attorney are typically $30-$50. You may also need to pay a lawyer separately to draft the document ($50-$200 depending on complexity).

Quick Facts

  • Authentication: $20-$50/doc
  • Power of Attorney: $30-$50
  • Certified Copies: $10-$20
  • Affidavits: $20-$30
  • Processing: Usually same day