Authentication and Legalisation of Documents
Documents issued in Jamaica which are needed for use overseas will require authentication and legalisation.
Authentication
This is the process whereby the Ministry attests or certifies that the signature and stamp or seal on the document belong to the person authorised to sign on behalf of the organisation which issued it, and that the document itself does not appear to be fraudulent. The Ministry cannot attest to any other content in the document.
Legalisation
This is the process where the consular officer in the embassy, High Commission or consulate representing the government of the country where the document is intended to be used attests that the signature and stamp or seal of the authenticating officer of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade is legitimate.
The Consular Department can also certify photocopies of documents, provided they will be accepted in the country where they are intended to be used. The certified document must also be counter-certified by the consular officer in the embassy, High Commission or consulate of the country where it is intended to be used.
Fees and Processing Times
Fees apply per document and are payable in cash. Applicants may pay in their preferred currency:
- $500.00Jamaican dollars
- $20.00United States dollars
- €15.00Euros
- £15.00Pounds sterling
Opening hours of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade
Monday to Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Contact and collection
For additional information, email consular@mfaft.gov.jm.
If you do not plan to collect the document in person, arrange for a courier service (FEDEX or DHL) to return it to you. This may be done using a prepaid label.