Common Questions

Everything you need
to know.

Answers to the most common questions from Americans abroad and across the U.S. about remote online notarization.

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General

What is remote online notarization (RON)?

Remote online notarization allows a commissioned notary to notarize documents over a secure, two-way audio-video connection — without anyone needing to be in the same room. The notary verifies your identity electronically, witnesses your signature in real time, and applies a digital notarial seal. The result is legally equivalent to an in-person notarization.

Is remote online notarization legal?

Yes. RON-notarized documents are legally valid in all 50 U.S. states. The Full Faith and Credit Clause of the U.S. Constitution supports interstate recognition.

Who can use PrimDocs?

Any U.S. citizen or eligible signer who needs a document notarized — whether you are living abroad, traveling internationally, or located anywhere in the United States. If you have a valid U.S. government-issued photo ID and a device with a camera and internet connection, we can help you.

Why use PrimDocs instead of the U.S. embassy or a local notary?

U.S. embassy appointments can take weeks to schedule and require travel to a major city. PrimDocs sessions are booked online, take 15 minutes, and can be completed from anywhere in the world — often the same day.

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Documents

What types of documents can PrimDocs notarize?

We notarize: powers of attorney, affidavits, sworn statements, real estate documents, trust and estate documents, financial and banking forms, consent forms, authorization letters, and general acknowledgments.

What documents cannot be notarized remotely?

Certain document types are excluded, including some wills requiring witnesses, vital records, and documents that explicitly require in-person notarization. We will let you know upfront if your document falls into this category.

Can I notarize a document I only have in paper form?

Yes. Photograph or scan the document clearly and save it as a PDF before your session. We will guide you through the eSigning process during the call.

Identity & security

How is my identity verified?

Identity verification is performed live during the video session. You will present a valid, unexpired U.S. government-issued photo ID — passport, driver's license, or state ID — directly to the camera.

Is the video session secure?

Yes. Sessions are conducted over an encrypted, RON-compliant video platform. The session is recorded and retained as required by state law. Recording is for notarial record purposes only and is not shared with third parties.

What happens to my personal information?

We retain only what state RON law requires: the session recording and notarial journal entry. We do not sell, share, or use your information for any other purpose.

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International acceptance

Will my RON-notarized document be accepted in a foreign country?

For Hague Apostille Convention countries — including Italy, France, Germany, Spain, and most of Europe — your notarized document will typically need an apostille from the Secretary of State before it is officially recognized abroad. We provide guidance on the apostille process after every session.

What is an apostille and do I need one?

An apostille is a certificate issued by the Secretary of State that authenticates the notary's signature for international use. If your document will be submitted to a foreign government or institution in a Hague Convention country, you will likely need one.

Can I use PrimDocs from anywhere in the world?

Yes. As long as you have a reliable internet connection and a device with a camera and microphone, you can complete your session from any country.

What about countries with internet restrictions?

Some countries restrict access to foreign video platforms. If you experience connectivity issues, contact us before your session and we will advise on solutions. Sessions that cannot be completed due to connectivity failures will be rescheduled at no charge.

Your session

How long does a session take?

Most single-document sessions are completed in 10 to 15 minutes. Multi-document sessions typically run 20 to 30 minutes.

When will I receive my notarized document?

Your completed, notarized document is delivered to your email address within minutes of the session ending — as a PDF with the electronic notarial seal and signature embedded.

What time zones do you serve?

We offer sessions across a broad range of time zones to accommodate Americans in Europe, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and across all U.S. time zones.

Ready to get your document notarized?

Book a session online — available across time zones, completed in minutes.

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