PlayInfoBox

Home /Education /How to Get an Official Seal or Signature Certificate

How to Get an Official Seal or Signature Certificate

Tap each step to see how a registered seal certificate is typically obtained.

  1. Confirm your seal is registered

    In several countries, including parts of East Asia, a personal seal has to be registered with a local government office before it can be certified. If yours isn't registered yet, you'll need to bring the physical seal in and register it first.

  2. Expect an in-person visit to be the default

    Because the certificate verifies your own registered identity, most offices require you to apply in person. A third party can apply on your behalf only with a formal power of attorney and extra supporting documents.

  3. Check whether online issuance applies to your case

    Some countries allow limited online issuance for specific, pre-approved purposes through a government portal. Check whether your intended use qualifies before assuming you must visit in person.

  4. Bring valid photo identification

    A passport, national ID card, or driver's license β€” whichever your local office accepts β€” is needed to confirm you're the person on record.

  5. State what the certificate is for

    Application forms usually ask for the intended purpose, such as a real estate contract, loan, or power of attorney. Some purposes may trigger extra review or require additional documents.

  6. Know the signature-based alternative

    Many places also offer a signature certification service that skips seal registration entirely, relying instead on your signature being witnessed by an official. Check which one the requesting party actually needs before you go.

Why This Still Matters for International Readers

A registered seal used to authenticate contracts, instead of a handwritten signature, is common practice across parts of East Asia. If you're renting property, opening a bank account, or signing a major contract in one of these countries, you may be asked for this kind of certificate even if your home country never uses one. This is general background information, not legal advice β€” requirements differ by country and by the specific office handling your request.

Seal Certificate vs. Signature Certificate

A seal certificate proves that a specific carved seal impression is officially registered to you, while a signature certificate proves that a specific signature is yours, witnessed by an official at the time of issuance. The two serve the same underlying purpose β€” proving you authorized a document β€” but which one a bank, landlord, or government office will accept depends entirely on local rules, so it's worth confirming before choosing either route.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my seal isn't registered yet?

You'll typically need to visit the relevant local office in person with the physical seal to register it first, and only then can a certificate be issued from that registration.

Can someone else pick up the certificate for me?

In many places, yes, but only with a proper power of attorney, a copy of your ID, and sometimes additional forms β€” policies vary, so it's worth calling ahead to confirm exactly what's required.