October 2023
Highlight
China officially ratified the Hague Convention Abolishing the Requirement of Legalization for Foreign Public Documents (referred to as the Convention) on March 8, 2023. The Convention is scheduled to take effect on November 7, 2023.
The Details
Since China’s accession to the Hague Convention on November 7, 2023, there is no longer a need for authentication and/or legalization of documents by Chinese Embassies or Consulates overseas when used between China and other signatory countries. Instead, a single apostille process will suffice.
In many countries, documents required for long-term work authorization immigration processes, such as non-criminal certificates, highest degrees, relationship certificates, and employment verification letters, must be legalized before they can be used for immigration procedures. The legalization process typically involves multiple steps at different authorities. However, with the apostille process, this procedure is simplified, making the documents ready for use.
It is important to note that the apostille process is only applicable to countries within the Hague Convention, and the effective date may vary among different countries. While most countries implement it from November 7, some may have a grace period before starting the apostille process.
What this means
The apostille process can shorten the preparation time for gathering required documents for the immigration process and thereby accelerating the overall end-to-end immigration process and saving significant time. By obtaining an apostille for the required documents, individuals or companies can bypass the need for further legalization by foreign authorities, making the overall immigration process more efficient and streamlined.
What this means
Please be aware that, in certain situations, documents may still require further additional legalization procedures beyond apostille. Please reach out to your usual Vialto Partners contacts for any support you may need.
By staying informed and seeking assistance when needed, you can navigate these new policies effectively and maximize the opportunities they present for international trade and travel to and from mainland China.
Contact us
Please reach out to your usual Vialto Partners contact should you have any questions on the above. Or alternatively:
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