Certification
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Dortmund Certification
Certification in Dortmund: Your Guide to Official Documents
Do you need a certification in Dortmund but are unsure where to obtain it and which documents are required? Whether for authorities, studies, or business purposes – proper certification is crucial. Find out which offices in Dortmund issue official certifications and how to make the process smooth. You can find more information in our contact section.
The topic briefly and concisely
The certification of documents in Dortmund can be handled by various offices, including Civil Services, notaries, and the AStA of TU Dortmund. Choosing the right office depends on the purpose of use.
The cost of notarization varies depending on the office. The citizen services offer an affordable option for signature certifications (€3.50), whereas notary fees depend on the value of the legal transaction. By making the right choice, you can save up to 50% of the costs.
Avoid common mistakes by choosing the right competent authority, having all required documents ready, and adhering to the formal requirements for certification. Proper certification prevents rejections and saves time.
Need a certification in Dortmund? Learn all about official offices, notaries, and the correct procedure to make your documents legally valid.
Do you need a Dortmund certification? Whether for official documents, applications, or registrations – a certification confirms the authenticity of your signature or a copy and is often essential. At Mentoc, we understand how important it is for your documents to be legally valid. Therefore, we show you where to obtain certifications in Dortmund and what you need to keep in mind. A certification serves as proof that a copy matches the original or that a signature is genuine. This is especially important when you need to submit documents to authorities, universities, or other institutions.
Definition and Purpose of Certification
A certification is the confirmation of the authenticity of a signature or a copy of a document. It serves to prove its agreement with the original and is required for official documents, applications, and registrations. This is particularly relevant for authorities, universities, and other institutions that require an official certification. There are various types of certifications that may be applicable depending on their intended use.
What Does "Certification" Mean?
The term "certification" encompasses the official confirmation of the authenticity of a document or a signature. This can be carried out by different authorities, depending on the type of document and the purpose for which the certification is needed. The certification ensures that the document or signature is legally recognized. In the context of Dortmund, it is important to know which authorities are responsible for which types of certifications.
Why is a Certification Needed?
A certification is required to prove the validity of documents with official bodies. This can be necessary for various purposes, such as university enrollment, submission of applications with authorities, or for commercial register registrations. Without a certification, documents may not be recognized, which could lead to delays or rejections.
Different Types of Certification
There are various types of certifications that differ in their validity and the responsible authorities. The choice of the right type of certification depends on the intended purpose. Here are the most common types:
Official Certification
The official certification is carried out by authorities with an official seal, such as citizen service offices. It is often needed for university admissions or other official purposes. An official certification confirms that a copy of a document matches the original and is therefore a reliable confirmation for official bodies. Information on official certification for enrollment at Dortmund University of Applied Sciences can be found here.
Notarial Certification
The notarial certification is carried out by notaries and is required for certain legal transactions, such as commercial register registrations or property transactions. A notary confirms the authenticity of the signature or document and ensures that all legal requirements are met. Further information on notarial certification in Dortmund can be found with Notar Puplick.
Certification by Churches
The certification by churches is primarily intended for ecclesiastical purposes and is not recognized as an "official certification". However, it may be relevant for certain religious matters. For official purposes, it is generally necessary to present an official or notarial certification. The parish office can issue certifications for documents issued by the church or needed for ecclesiastical purposes, but these are not considered "official certifications". Further information can be found on the parish office page.
Certification in Dortmund: A Comparison of Citizen Services, Notaries and AStA
In Dortmund, various offices are available for the certification of your documents. The choice of the right office depends on the type of document and its intended use. We provide you with an overview of the responsible offices and their specific offers.
Citizen Services of the City of Dortmund
The Citizen Services of the City of Dortmund are a key point of contact for the certification of signatures. They are responsible for the certification of signatures intended for German authorities or institutions. However, it is important to note that the Citizen Services do not carry out certifications for signatures without text or public certifications in accordance with § 129 BGB. A notary is required for such cases.
Jurisdiction
The Citizen Services are responsible for the certification of signatures if the signed document is intended for submission to a German authority or institution. This includes, for example, applications, forms, and other official documents. The Citizen Services are not responsible for other types of certifications, such as certification of copies.
Requirements and Procedure
A signature can only be certified at the Citizen Services by appointment. You must present a form of identification (ID card or passport), and the signature must be performed in the presence of the officer or recognized by them. The fee for signature certification is €3.50. The certification is usually carried out immediately. More information and the possibility to make an appointment can be found on the City of Dortmund's website.
Locations
The Citizen Services are represented at several locations in Dortmund. The location in Brackel is currently closed. Car dealers and registration services are exclusively served by the dealer area in the city centre. It is advisable to make an appointment in advance to avoid waiting times. You can find the exact locations and opening hours on the City of Dortmund's website.
Notaries in Dortmund
Notaries in Dortmund offer a wide range of certification services. They are not only responsible for the certification of signatures but also for the certification of copies and documents of all kinds. This makes them an important contact point for anyone who requires comprehensive certification.
Jurisdiction
Notaries are responsible for the certification of signatures, copies, and documents of all kinds. This also includes commercial register notifications, such as changes of business addresses, appointments of managing directors, and amendments to articles of association. Unlike the Citizen Services, notaries can also conduct public certifications in accordance with § 129 BGB. Notary André Döttelbeck, for example, offers certifications to confirm the authenticity of signatures, copies, and documents.
Procedure and Costs
A notarial certification requires an identity check, usually by presenting an ID card. Notary fees are based on the Court and Notary Fees Act (GNotKG) and depend on the value of the legal transaction. You can enquire about the exact costs from your notary. The notaries in Dortmund offer certifications of all kinds, as well as the certification of signatures, initials, and copies.
AStA of TU Dortmund
The AStA of TU Dortmund offers a special service for students: the certification of documents. This service is specifically tailored to the needs of students and provides a cost-effective alternative to notaries or citizen services.
Jurisdiction
The AStA of TU Dortmund is responsible for the certification of documents for students of TU Dortmund. This includes, for example, certificates, student attestations, and other documents relevant to studies. The AStA of TU Dortmund offers certifications during the semester (Monday to Friday from 10:15 to 13:45) and during the non-lecture period (Monday to Friday from 10:15 to 12:45).
Requirements and Procedure
To use the certification service of the AStA, an appointment is required. You must bring the originals and copies of the documents to be certified. A TU email address is required to confirm the appointment (exceptions apply for language students or prospective students without a TU email). A maximum of 10 documents can be certified per appointment. The contact details for AStA are: +49 (0)231 / 755 – 2584, Emil-Figge-Str. 50, 44227 Dortmund.
University of Applied Sciences Dortmund
The University of Applied Sciences Dortmund also offers a service for the certification of certificates, particularly for enrolment. This is an important service for new students who need to prove their university entrance qualification.
Jurisdiction
The University of Applied Sciences Dortmund is responsible for the certification of certificates (e.g. university entrance qualification) for enrolment. This ensures that the submitted certificates correspond to the originals and are therefore recognized for admission to study. Information about official certification can be found on the website of the University of Applied Sciences Dortmund.
Requirements for Certification
A proper official certification must include a confirmation of conformity with the original, the certifier's signature, and the official seal with emblem. For multi-page documents, cohesion must be ensured, for example, by overlap, stapling, and sealing. Certifications by lawyers, associations, auditors, or tax consultants are not accepted.
Certification process in Dortmund: How to do it right
The process of certification can vary depending on the office, but there are some basic steps you should follow to ensure your documents are correctly certified. We will guide you through the process step by step.
Preparation
Good preparation is crucial for a smooth certification process. Make sure you have all the required documents and information ready before scheduling an appointment or visiting an office.
Required Documents
For the certification, you will usually need the original documents and copies, as well as an identification proof (ID card or passport). Ensure the copies are easily readable and contain all relevant information. It is advisable to inquire with the responsible office in advance about which documents are exactly required.
Scheduling an Appointment
At the citizen services, the students' union, and most notaries, an appointment is necessary. This helps to avoid waiting times and ensures the responsible office has time for your certification. Be informed in advance about the appointment scheduling procedures and arrange an appointment that suits you.
Conducting the Certification
The process of the certification itself is usually uncomplicated if you have all the required documents and information ready. Follow the instructions of the responsible office and answer any questions they might have.
Presenting the Documents
Present the original and the copy of the document to be certified to the official or notary. The official or notary will check the agreement and confirm the authenticity. Ensure that you answer all questions and clear up any uncertainties.
Signing/Recognition
For signature authentications, you must provide or recognize the signature in the presence of the official. This serves to confirm the authenticity of the signature. If necessary, bring a pen to provide the signature.
Verification and Confirmation
The official or notary will verify the agreement of the original and the copy as well as the authenticity of the signature. Subsequently, they confirm the certification with a stamp and signature. The certification is now legally valid and can be used for the intended purpose.
After the Certification
After the certification, you can use the certified documents for the intended purpose. Ensure that you store the documents carefully and protect them from damage or loss.
Using the Certified Documents
Submit the certified documents to the relevant office (authority, university, etc.). Pay attention to the respective deadlines and requirements of the office. Ensure that you keep a copy of the certified documents for your own records.
Cost Overview: How to Save on Certification in Dortmund
The costs for a certification can vary depending on the office and type of certification. We provide you with an overview of the fees at various locations in Dortmund, so you can choose the most cost-effective option.
Fees at Citizens’ Services
The Citizens’ Services of the City of Dortmund charge a fee for signature certification. This fee is relatively low compared to notary costs.
Signature Certification: €3.50
For the certification of a signature at the Citizens’ Services, the fee is €3.50. This is an economical option if you only need a signature certified and the Citizens’ Services is responsible for your purpose.
Notary Fees
The notary fees are determined by the Court and Notary Fees Act (GNotKG) and depend on the value of the legal transaction. Therefore, the costs for a notarial certification can vary.
Dependent on the Value of the Legal Transaction (GNotKG)
You can inquire notary fees from your notary. It is advisable to obtain a quote in advance to better gauge the costs. Note that the notary fees also include advisory services and the preparation of drafts.
Costs at the AStA of TU Dortmund
The AStA of TU Dortmund generally offers an affordable certification service for students. However, the exact costs can vary.
Check Information on the AStA Website
It is advisable to visit the AStA website or contact the AStA directly to find out the current certification costs. Often, this service is available to students free of charge or at a reduced price.
Avoiding Certification Errors: How to Do It Right in Dortmund
Errors can occur during the certification of documents that may affect the validity of the certification. We will show you how to avoid common mistakes and ensure your documents are certified correctly.
Incorrect Jurisdiction
One of the most common mistakes is choosing the wrong responsible authority. Not every office is permitted to certify all types of documents. Therefore, find out in advance which office is responsible for your purpose.
Not every office can certify everything
Churches, for instance, are not allowed to carry out official certifications. The citizen services are only responsible for certain purposes. For other types of certifications, such as certifying copies for commercial register applications, a notary is required. The integreat App Dortmund provides information about the recognition of certificates and certifications.
Missing Documents
Another common mistake is the lack of required documents. Make sure you have all the necessary documents ready before making an appointment or visiting an office.
Forgotten Proof of Identity
Do not forget to bring your proof of identity (ID card or passport). Without proof of identity, the certification cannot be carried out. The original document is also required to check the conformity with the copy.
Form Errors in Certification
Form errors in the certification itself can also affect validity. Ensure that the certification contains all the required information and is carried out correctly.
Missing Official Seal
A proper official certification must contain a service seal with an emblem. A simple text stamp is not sufficient. Make sure that the service seal is legible and contains all the required information.
No Confirmation of Conformity
The certification must include a confirmation of the conformity of the original and the copy. Without this confirmation, the certification is not valid. Ensure that the official or notary explicitly confirms the conformity.
Multi-page Documents not Properly Bound
For multi-page documents, the coherence must be ensured, for example, by overlapping, stapling, and sealing. Otherwise, the certification may be invalid. Ensure that all pages are properly connected and that the certification is applied to each page.
International Certifications: Apostille and Legalisation Explained Simply
If you wish to use your documents abroad, you may need an Apostille or Legalisation. We explain the differences and show you how to obtain them.
Apostille and Legalisation
Apostille and Legalisation are procedures for the authentication of documents for use abroad. The Apostille is a simplified form of Legalisation and is used for countries that are members of the Hague Convention.
Apostille
The Apostille is used for countries that are part of the Hague Convention. It certifies the authenticity of the signature, the capacity in which the signatory has acted, and, where applicable, the authenticity of the seal or stamp with which the document is adorned. The Apostille is issued by a Designated Authority of the issuing state. The Bezirksregierung Arnsberg is the competent authority for issuing Apostilles for public documents from the Arnsberg administrative region.
Legalisation
The Legalisation is required for countries that are not part of the Hague Convention. It is a more complex procedure than the Apostille and may involve the Foreign Office and the consulate of the destination country. The Legalisation also certifies the authenticity of the signature, the capacity in which the signatory has acted, and, where applicable, the authenticity of the seal or stamp with which the document is adorned.
Bezirksregierung Arnsberg
The Bezirksregierung Arnsberg is the competent authority for the issuance of Apostilles and Legalisation for public documents from the Arnsberg administrative region. This also includes documents from Dortmund.
Jurisdiction
The Bezirksregierung Arnsberg is responsible for issuing Apostilles and Legalisation for public documents from the Arnsberg administrative region. This includes, for example, documents from authorities, courts, and notaries. The Bezirksregierung Arnsberg provides telephone consultations from Monday to Friday between 08:30 and 12:00.
Procedure
The application for an Apostille or Legalisation must be submitted by post. The processing time is currently around 10 working days. Certain documents are required for the issuance of an Apostille or Legalisation, such as the original document and a copy of the proof of identity. You can view the exact requirements on the website of the Bezirksregierung Arnsberg.
FAQ: Your questions about certification in Dortmund answered
Here we answer frequently asked questions about certification in Dortmund to make the process easier for you.
Can any authority certify?
No, only certain authorities with an official seal are allowed to certify. Please check in advance which authority is responsible for your purpose. The City of Dortmund provides information on the certification of signatures.
What does a certification cost?
At the citizen services, a signature certification costs €3.50. The notary fees are variable and depend on the value of the legal transaction. Please inform yourself in advance about the exact costs.
Do I need an appointment?
Yes, at the citizen services, the Student Union (AStA), and most notaries, an appointment is required. Arrange a appointment in good time to avoid waiting times. The AStA TU Dortmund offers online appointments for certifications.
How long does a certification take?
At the citizen services, a certification is usually immediate. At the Arnsberg District Government, the processing time is approximately 10 working days. Please allow enough time to receive the certification in due time.
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More useful links
The Fachhochschule Dortmund provides information about the requirements for an official certification of certificates for enrollment.
On the website of the city of Dortmund, you will find information about citizen services and signature authentication.
The AStA of TU Dortmund offers a certification service for students of TU Dortmund.
The Arnsberg District Government is the competent authority for issuing apostilles and legalisations for official documents from the Arnsberg administrative district.
FAQ
Which documents can be certified in Dortmund?
In Dortmund, signatures, copies, and all types of documents can be certified. This includes, for example, certificates, deeds, contracts, and commercial register applications.
Where can I have a signature certified in Dortmund?
For the certification of signatures, you can approach the citizen services of the City of Dortmund and notaries in Dortmund. The citizen services are responsible for signatures intended for German authorities.
How much does it cost to have a signature certified at the citizen services in Dortmund?
The fee for a signature certification at the citizen services of the City of Dortmund is €3.50.
Do I need an appointment for certification at the citizen services?
Yes, an appointment is required for certification at the citizen services. You can make this appointment on the website of the City of Dortmund.
What is the difference between an official and a notarised certification?
An official certification is performed by authorities with an official seal, whereas a notarised certification is carried out by a notary. Notarised certifications are often required for specific legal transactions.
Can the AStA of TU Dortmund certify documents?
Yes, the AStA of TU Dortmund offers a certification service for students. This includes, for example, certificates and proof of enrolment.
What is an apostille and when do I need one?
An apostille is a special form of certification required for the use of documents abroad. It is needed for countries that are part of the Hague Convention.
Where can I obtain an apostille for documents from Dortmund?
The Arnsberg district government is the competent authority for issuing apostilles for public documents from the Arnsberg administrative region, which includes Dortmund.
