Can I Use Remote Online Notarization If I'm Traveling Outside the United States?
The short answer is yes! In many cases, you can have your documents notarized through (RON) even if you're traveling, living, or working outside the United States.
This is one of the biggest advantages of Remote Online Notarization and one of the reasons it has become so popular with travelers, military personnel, expatriates, international students, digital nomads, and Americans purchasing property or handling legal matters from overseas.
However, there are a few important rules—and several common misconceptions—that every signer should understand before scheduling a remote online notarization.
Yes, You Can Be Outside the United States
One of the most common questions I receive is:
"I'm currently in another country. Can I still use a U.S. Remote Online Notary?"
In most cases, yes.
As long as the notarization complies with the laws of the state where the notary is commissioned, the signer may generally be physically located almost anywhere in the world during the notarization session.
Whether you're in:
Portugal
Mexico
Canada
Germany
Japan
Australia
Or nearly any other country
...you may still be able to complete your notarization online without ever stepping inside a U.S. embassy or consulate.
Where Must the Notary Be Located?
This is where many people get confused.
While you can be overseas, the notary cannot. The notary must be physically located within the state where they are commissioned and authorized to perform Remote Online Notarizations at the time the notarization takes place.
For example: If I'm performing your Remote Online Notarization as a Tennessee Remote Online Notary, I must be physically located in Tennessee during our appointment—even if you are sitting in Lisbon, London, or Tokyo.
The location of the notary determines which state's laws govern the notarization.
Common Misconception #1: "The Notary Has to Be in My Country"
False.
You do not need to find a notary located in the country where you're traveling. The entire purpose of Remote Online Notarization is that the signer and notary can be in different locations while communicating through secure audio-video technology.
Common Misconception #2: "I Need to Visit the U.S. Embassy"
Not necessarily.
Many Americans assume they must make an appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate for notarial services.
While embassies do provide notarial services in many countries, appointments may be limited, involve long wait times, or require significant travel.
For many documents, Remote Online Notarization can be a faster and more convenient alternative.
Common Misconception #3: "Any Document Can Be Notarized Online"
Not always.
Some agencies, governments, financial institutions, or foreign jurisdictions may have their own requirements regarding how documents must be signed or notarized.
For example, certain documents may require:
Original ink ("wet") signatures
In-person notarization
Additional witnesses
Apostille or authentication after notarization
If you're unsure whether your document qualifies for Remote Online Notarization, it's always best to ask before your appointment.
What You'll Need for a Successful RON Session
Before your appointment, make sure you have:
A reliable internet connection
A computer, tablet, or smartphone with a camera and microphone
Your valid U.S. government-issued photo ID
Your unsigned document (unless instructed otherwise)
An email address to receive your completed notarized document
If you're using separate devices for multiple signers, the process is often even smoother and faster.
What About Apostilles?
If your document will be used in another country, notarization may only be the first step. Many international documents also require an apostille (or, in some cases, authentication) before they'll be accepted by a foreign government.
The good news is that a document notarized through a properly performed Remote Online Notarization may still be eligible for an apostille, depending on the destination country and the type of document.
Because every situation is unique, it's important to verify the destination country's requirements before proceeding.
Why Travelers Choose Remote Online Notarization
Remote Online Notarization can save travelers from:
Searching for a local English-speaking notary
Scheduling embassy appointments weeks in advance
Taking time away from work or vacation
Mailing documents internationally before signing
Delaying important legal or real estate transactions
Instead, you can often complete the entire notarization in just minutes—from virtually anywhere with an internet connection.
Let Notary by Divine Help
Whether you're vacationing overseas, stationed abroad, attending school in another country, or simply living outside the United States, Remote Online Notarization may allow you to complete your important documents without interrupting your plans.
At Notary by Divine, we provide secure, convenient Remote Online Notarization services for clients across the United States and around the world. If your document also requires an apostille, we can assist with that process as well—helping you navigate each step from notarization to international acceptance.
Ready to get started? Contact Notary by Divine today to schedule your Remote Online Notarization and discover just how easy notarizing documents can be—even when you're thousands of miles from home.
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