You’ve just been told you need a Certified True Copy for your visa, banking, or school documents in Bali — but you’re not even sure what that means. 😕
It sounds official (and a bit intimidating), and suddenly you’re scrambling to figure out where to go, what to bring, and whether this applies to you. Missing one document could delay your visa or bank application. 😬
Don’t worry — in this blog, we’ll walk you through exactly what a Certified True Copy is, who needs it, and how to get one from a notary in Bali ✅. Knowing how to handle your documents properly can make the process so much smoother.
“I almost missed my visa extension deadline because I didn’t know I needed a Certified True Copy of my passport,” says Lara, a digital nomad from Germany. “Getting it notarized in Bali was quick once I knew what to ask for!” ✍️
For example, if you’re opening a local bank account 🏦, applying for a visa extension 🛂, or enrolling your kids in school 🎓, there’s a good chance you’ll be asked for a Certified True Copy of key documents like your ID, passport, or marriage certificate.
Ready to avoid stress and get your documents notarized the right way? Let’s dive into how Certified True Copies work in Bali — and how to get one fast. 💼📑👇
Table of Contents
- What Is a Certified True Copy?
- What Kinds of Documents Can Be Certified?
- Cost of Getting a Certified True Copy in Bali
- The Process and How Long It Takes
- Can You Use Digital Scans or Do You Need Hard Copies?
- Can You Use Public Transportation in Bali as a Foreigner?
- Is a Certified True Copy Valid Internationally or Only in Indonesia?
- Are There Mobile or Online Notary Services in Bali?
- Final Thoughts about Certified True Copy
What Is a Certified True Copy?
A Certified True Copy is a special photocopy of an original document that has been officially stamped and signed by a notary or authorized person. 📎 This stamp means the copy is exactly like the original, and can be trusted by governments, banks, or immigration officers.
Think of it like this: you don’t want to hand over your passport or original diploma to someone who might lose it. 😨 So instead, you give them a copy—but with a notary’s official stamp to show it’s legit. ✅ This way, you protect your important documents while still proving they’re real!
In Bali, certified copies are often needed for official paperwork, especially if you’re a foreigner applying for a visa, buying land, or setting up a business. 📂
What Kinds of Documents Can Be Certified?
You can certify almost any important document—as long as you have the original. Common ones include:
🛂 Passport or ID card
🎓 Academic diploma or transcript
💍 Marriage certificate
👶 Birth certificate
📄 Bank statements
🏢 Business licenses (like SIUP, NIB, NPWP)
🧾 Tax documents
📑 Power of attorney or contracts
Some documents might also need sworn translation first—especially if they’re in another language. 🌐 Be sure to ask what’s required before your appointment.
Cost of Getting a Certified True Copy in Bali
The price can vary depending on:
📄 The number of pages
🗂️ The type of document
📍 Your location
🏢 The notary’s experience
On average, it costs IDR 1.5 million –2.5 million per document. 🪙 Some notaries charge per stamp, while others offer packages.
If you’re using an agency or lawyer, they might bundle this cost into your overall service fee. 💼 Just be sure to ask for a breakdown so there are no surprises!
The Process and How Long It Takes
Good news: It’s usually quick! 🕒
Here’s what happens:
You bring your original document and some clear photocopies.
The notary checks that everything matches with your original passport.
They stamp, sign, and date the copy—making it “certified.” 🖋️✅
⏱️ It usually takes 15–30 minutes, but if the notary is busy or you have multiple documents, it could take a day.
Tip: Bring extra copies just in case—and a backup on your phone or USB, too. 📲
What to Prepare: Originals, Copies, or Both?
✅ Always bring the original document.
The notary needs to compare the original to the copy before they can certify it. If you only bring a digital version or a photo, they usually won’t accept it. ❌
You should also bring:
- 📑 1–2 clean photocopies of each document
- 🪪 Your ID (passport or KTP)
- 🖨️ A USB or email version in case you need to reprint
Need translations? Ask ahead if the notary works with sworn translators. They might offer everything in one spot, saving you time. 🌟
Can You Use Digital Scans or Do You Need Hard Copies?
Unfortunately, digital scans aren’t enough for certified true copies. 🙅♀️
Why? Because the notary must physically verify the original and make sure the copy is identical. They stamp the hard copy—not a PDF or screenshot.
So, while you can send scans for online review, the certification must be done in-person using printed copies. 📄
However, after certification, you can scan the stamped copy to send via email or upload for visa or banking portals. 💻 Just remember: always keep the hard copy safe!
Is a Certified True Copy Valid Internationally or Only in Indonesia?
It depends where you’re sending it! 🧭
In Indonesia — Certified True Copies from local notaries are accepted for most legal, immigration, and business purposes.
International use 🌐 — You may need extra steps, like:
A sworn translation
An apostille from Kemenkumham
Embassy legalization
For example, if you’re applying for a visa abroad or enrolling in a foreign university, they might ask for documents certified AND apostilled. 🔏
Always check the specific requirements of the country or agency you’re dealing with. ✅
Are There Mobile or Online Notary Services in Bali?
Yes, there are! 🎉 Services in Bali are becoming more and more convenient, and some notaries now offer the following:
🚗 Mobile notary services (they can come to your home or office)
💻 Online booking via WhatsApp or their website
📩 Document submission by email
🏠 On-site certification at your villa or workplace
This is especially useful for busy individuals and digital nomads. 😊
However, normally, notaries need to verify the original document in person before placing their stamp.
🆕 With our service, full online certification is possible!
📹 Just record a short video of yourself signing the document and placing your thumbprint, then send us the video. We can complete the certification process remotely—no need to visit in person!
Please note that extra fees may apply for travel or weekend services, so it’s best to check in advance. 🚙💼
Final Thoughts about Certified True Copy
Getting a Certified True Copy in Bali is easy once you know where to go and what to prepare. 📎 Whether you’re applying for a visa, opening a bank account, or managing legal documents, having certified copies can save you a lot of trouble. 😌
Just remember:
Bring your originals
Ask about translation or apostille if needed
Choose a licensed notary
Keep both hard and digital copies
Ready to get your documents certified? 📑✍️ You’re just one stamp away from smooth sailing! 🌊🌴
