2. Acknowledgments outside the United States

(May 1, 2000)

When a deed or other written instrument is acknowledged outside of the United States, it may be made

1. Before a notary public or justice of the peace provided that the identity and office of the notary public or justice of the peace are authenticated by a certificate described in G.L. c. 183, § 33, sometimes called an “apostille”, issued by the competent authority of the country from which the document emanates. A model of an apostille is attached. The apostille need not be in English.

   or

2. Before a commissioner appointed by the governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts pursuant to G.L. c. 222.

   or

3. Before an ambassador, minister, consul, vice consul, charge d’affaires or consular officer or agent of the United Stated accredited to the country where the acknowledgment is made, provided that it is certified by him/her under his/her seal of office.

G.L. c. 183, § 30 (b) and (c) and § 33.

Model of certificate