Can I use my U.S. passport?
Often yes, if the platform supports passport verification for the session.
International Notary Guides
Can U.S. Citizens Notarize Documents Online While Overseas?
U.S. citizens living or traveling overseas may be able to use remote online notarization for eligible U.S.-related documents.
iRemoteNotary Editorial Team
Quick Answer
Can a U.S. citizen notarize a document online from another country?
U.S. citizens abroad can often use remote online notarization for eligible U.S.-related documents if they have acceptable ID, can complete identity verification, and the receiving party accepts electronically notarized documents. Requirements may vary by document, platform, and receiving party.
Notarizing from another country
A signer does not always need to be physically inside the United States to complete a remote online notarization. For many U.S.-related documents, the key questions are whether the document is eligible, whether the signer can be identified, and whether the receiving party accepts the notarization.
What U.S. citizens abroad usually need
Most signers need an unsigned document, a valid government-issued photo ID, a device with camera and microphone, reliable internet, and access to email or phone verification.
Identity verification from overseas
Some platforms use credential analysis, KBA, biometric comparison, or a combination of methods. U.S. citizens who have lived abroad for many years may have more difficulty with KBA if there is limited recent U.S. data.
Common document examples
Examples may include powers of attorney, affidavits, real estate documents, tax-related forms, business documents, child travel consent forms, and financial forms.
What to confirm before the session
Confirm receiving-party acceptance, witness requirements, wet-signature requirements, ID compatibility, time zone, and whether the final document must be sent in a specific format.
Important caution
A notary cannot decide whether your document will be accepted by a third party. Confirm requirements before signing.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a U.S. address?
Not always, but KBA and identity verification may be affected by your U.S. address history.
What if I fail identity verification overseas?
The session may need to be rescheduled or handled through another approved method if available.
Can non-U.S. citizens use online notarization abroad?
Possibly, depending on the document, ID, identity verification, and receiving-party requirements.
Related pages
Ready to Notarize Your Document?
Submit your request online, upload your unsigned document, verify your identity, and meet a commissioned notary by secure video session — available nationwide for eligible documents.