Notarised Copies and Extracts in Uzbekistan: What Foreign Investors Need to Know

What Is Notarial Certification of a Copy — and Why Does It Matter?

Notarial certification of a document copy is the formal confirmation that a reproduced text is identical to the original. The same principle applies to extracts: I certify the accuracy of the specific portion you are reproducing, provided that the extracted fragment does not distort the meaning of the document as a whole.

In my daily practice I regularly see clients underestimate the difference between a plain photocopy and a notarised copy. A simple photocopy carries no legal weight in the vast majority of government agencies, banks, or foreign institutions. A notarised copy, by contrast, is accepted as a legally equivalent substitute for the original wherever producing the original is impractical or undesirable.

Key points to keep in mind:

• The notary certifies only that the copy matches the original — the underlying content of the document is not independently verified.
• An extract may be certified only when the selected portion has independent legal significance and does not take information out of context.
• A copy of a document issued by a foreign state may require an additional certified translation or an apostille.
• Fees are subject to periodic revision; always confirm the current tariff directly with the notary on the day of your visit.

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When Is a Notarised Copy or Extract Required?

The range of situations in which a notarised copy is indispensable is broad:

• Government authorities — when filing applications, registering rights, or obtaining subsidies.
• Banks and financial institutions — for account opening, loan applications, or guarantee arrangements.
• Courts and arbitration tribunals — when the original is already filed in separate proceedings or held by another party.
• Foreign organisations — for immigration, overseas study, or cross-border transactions.
• Corporate procedures — extracts from articles of association, board minutes, or shareholder registers.

I always advise clients to confirm with the receiving party in advance whether a plain notarised copy is sufficient or whether an apostille or consular legalisation is also required.

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Copy vs. Extract: A Comparison

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Documents to Bring to the Notary's Office

• The original of the document to be copied or extracted — the procedure cannot proceed without it.
• Passport or other identity document of the applicant.
• If a representative is acting on behalf of the document owner — a notarially certified power of attorney.
• If the document is in a foreign language — verify in advance whether a notarially certified translation is also required.
• If available, bring pre-printed clean copies to speed up the process: the notary will verify them against the original.

Please note: documents containing corrections, erasures, illegible text, or damaged requisites may lawfully be refused. Such a refusal is not a matter of discretion — it is a statutory requirement.

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FAQ

Can a copy of a photocopy be certified if the original has been lost?

No. I can certify a copy only when the original document is present. If the original has been lost, it must first be restored through the issuing authority.

How many copies can be certified in a single visit?

As many as you need. The number of copies affects the total fee but is not an obstacle to the procedure.

Do notarised copies expire?

The notarial endorsement itself has no statutory expiry date. However, the receiving organisation may impose its own requirements regarding how recently the copy was made — always check with them in advance.

Does a representative need a power of attorney to collect a copy on behalf of the document owner?

Yes. If the document belongs to another person who cannot appear in person, the representative must hold a notarially certified power of attorney.

Can a copy of an electronic document be notarised?

Yes — Uzbek law provides for this possibility, but the procedure and technical requirements have specific features. I recommend clarifying the details during a personal consultation.

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Disclaimer

This article is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute individual legal or notarial advice. Every situation has its own particularities that may affect the applicable procedure and fees.

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Visit a Notary in Yunusabad District, Tashkent

If you need to have a document copy certified or an extract prepared in Tashkent, I welcome you to my notarial office in Yunusabad District. We will help you complete all necessary paperwork accurately and efficiently. Please contact us through any of the channels listed on the website.