As digital notarisation grows in popularity, many people are asking: What’s the difference between notary online and electronic notary? Understanding the nuances between these two options will help you choose the right notary service for your needs in 2026. Let’s break down the key differences and see how these services are transforming the way we handle legal documents.
What Is a Notary Online?
Definition and Function of Online Notary
A notary online service allows you to notarise your documents remotely via the internet, making it faster, more accessible, and convenient. This process is done through a secure digital platform where you can upload your documents and connect with a licensed notary via a video call.
The notary verifies the authenticity of your document and electronically signs it, providing a legally binding notarisation without you having to leave your home or office.
How It Works for UK Citizens
For UK citizens, the process is simple and secure:
- Upload the document you need notarised to the online platform.
- Verify your identity through biometric scans or ID verification.
- Join a video call with a certified notary public.
- Receive your notarised document almost instantly.
Benefits of Online Notary Public UK Services
- Fast and Convenient: No need to schedule in-person appointments.
- Available 24/7: Get your documents notarised whenever you need them.
- Affordable: Online notary services often cost less than traditional in-person services.
- Legally Binding: The notarisation holds the same legal weight as traditional notarisation.
What Is an Electronic Notary?
Definition of Electronic Notary Services
An electronic notary involves a fully digital process where a notary public uses electronic tools to notarise documents. This can include using digital signatures, secure online platforms, and encryption to ensure the document’s authenticity.
An electronic notary typically relies on advanced digital technology, such as blockchain or encrypted digital signatures, to provide an even higher level of security than traditional notary services.
How It Differs from Traditional Notary and Online Notary
- Traditional Notary: Requires physical presence and in-person signing.
- Online Notary: Involves video calls for verification and document signing, but is limited to the notary’s digital signature.
- Electronic Notary: Uses fully digital tools for both signing and sealing the document, making the process quicker and more secure.
Legality and Acceptance of Electronic Notary Services
Electronic notary services are legally recognised in the UK, and increasingly, countries around the world. Documents notarised electronically are accepted in many jurisdictions, particularly if combined with an apostille for international use. However, some countries may require additional validation or certification depending on their legal systems.
Key Differences Between Notary Online and Electronic Notary
Method of Verification
- Notary Online: Verifies identity through biometric checks and video calls with a licensed notary.
- Electronic Notary: Utilises advanced digital signatures and encryption, often involving more robust verification systems.
Platform Used for Notarisation
- Notary Online: Typically uses video call platforms and document upload services for notarisation.
- Electronic Notary: Involves encrypted digital platforms, sometimes with blockchain technology, for extra security and verification.
Document Acceptance (Hague Apostille Convention)
- Notary Online: Documents notarised online can be apostilled for international recognition, especially in Hague Convention member countries.
- Electronic Notary: Digital notarisation may require additional steps like embassy legalisation for certain countries. It is important to check if the destination country recognises electronic notarisation.
Which Service Do You Need in 2026?
Choosing the Right Notary Service Based on Your Document Needs
- For Personal Use: If you need documents notarised for personal matters like wills, affidavits, or power of attorney, online notary services are a fast, cost-effective option.
- For Business or International Use: If you need notarisation for business contracts, international documents, or documents that need to be legally recognised across borders, an electronic notary service is often more suitable. It provides higher security and is recognised internationally when combined with an apostille.
How to Use Online Notary Services for Your Documents
Steps for Online Notarisation with Notrexon
- Visit the website: Go to Notrexon Online Notary Service.
- Select the service you need, whether it’s for personal or business use.
- Upload your document securely to the platform.
- Complete the identity verification process via biometric checks.
- Join the live video call with a certified notary.
- Receive your notarised document digitally and instantly.
Documents That Can Be Easily Notarised Online
- Power of Attorney
- Affidavits
- Business Contracts
- Personal Documents (Wills, Divorce Decrees, etc.)
- Legal Documents for International Use (with apostille)
Is Online Notary or Electronic Notary Right for You?
Choosing between notary online and electronic notary services depends on your specific needs. If you need a fast and affordable solution for personal documents, online notary services are an excellent choice. For business or international matters requiring enhanced security, electronic notary services provide a more robust solution.
To start notarising your documents online, visit Notrexon’s Online Notary Services and experience a seamless, secure, and legally recognised digital notarisation service.
