U.S. Embassy in China Consular Section One-Stop Service, How to Process Notarization More Efficiently?

Translation

In the daily operations of the U.S. Embassy in China, notary services may not be the most eye-catching, but for many people with real needs, they are an essential part of legal procedures. In recent years, as Sino-U.S. exchanges in personnel and economic cooperation have deepened, the demand for cross-border notarization related to study abroad, immigration, business, and property inheritance has also continued to grow. So, what exactly can the notary office at the U.S. Embassy in China offer? And how can you make better use of these services? Let’s take a closer look.

1. Functions and Scope of the Notary Office at the U.S. Embassy in China

First and foremost, it's important to understand that the notary services provided by the U.S. Embassy and its consular offices are not all-encompassing. They are mainly intended for individuals or organizations residing in or temporarily staying in China who need to handle matters related to U.S. law.

Common notary services include but are not limited to

Power of Attorney POA

Affidavits

Identity or asset declarations

Certification that a copy matches the original document

Notarization of signatures on documents to be used in the U.S.

These documents are typically used within the United States-for example, applying for school, applying for visas, handling estates, or signing contracts. The notarization must usually comply with the legal requirements of individual U.S. states. Some documents may also require additional certification, such as an Apostille, from the U.S. Department of State or the relevant state government.

2. Recent Trends Rising Demand Due to Improved U.S.-China Relations

According to the latest data from the fourth quarter of 2025, the flow of people between China and the U.S. is steadily recovering. According to reports from China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in China, the number of visas issued by U.S. diplomatic missions in China in 2025 increased by about 35% compared to the previous year, with particularly notable increases in student and business visas.

This trend has directly boosted the demand for notary services. For example, many Chinese students heading to the U.S. need to sign a power of attorney here, authorizing family members to manage property or bank affairs. American citizens working in China often need to notarize legal documents such as marriage certificates or child custody agreements. Additionally, many Chinese companies entering contracts with U.S. clients also require notarized authorization documents.

Under these circumstances, notary services at the U.S. Embassy have become increasingly important, and there is also higher demand for service efficiency.

3. How to Use the U.S. Embassy's Notary Services More Efficiently

If you need a notary service and want to complete the process smoothly and quickly, here are some practical tips

1. Prepare all necessary documents in advance

While the process at the U.S. Embassy is relatively transparent, unfamiliarity can easily lead to wasted trips due to incomplete documentation. Before making an appointment, carefully review the instructions on the official website and prepare

Valid passport or ID

Original and copies of the documents to be notarized

If someone else is acting on your behalf, a formal power of attorney and their ID are required

2. Ensure the documents meet U.S. legal standards

Some documents commonly used in China may not be accepted in the U.S. For example, certain affidavits may require specific formats or include clauses such as the location of the oath and applicable law. It's recommended to consult a lawyer or professional agency in advance to ensure compliance.

3. Familiarize yourself with the online appointment system

The U.S. Embassy in China offers an online appointment system. It's recommended to create an account and book your slot in advance. Consulates in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and Shenyang all support this system. Planning ahead helps avoid waiting in line and saves time.

4. Pay attention to fees and processing time

Notary services are chargeable, with fees varying depending on the type of service. Typically, a single notary service costs around $100. Some services require on-site signature but do not issue the notarized document immediately-you'll need to wait for a period of time. Plan ahead to avoid delays.

4. Frequently Asked Questions FAQ

Q Can I sign a power of attorney in China and use it in the U.S.?

A Yes, but it must go through the notarization process. If the document will be used in the U.S., it may also require further certification such as an Apostille or authentication by the U.S. Department of State.

Q Can someone else handle the notarization on my behalf?

A Some services allow for means agent handling, but you must provide a formal power of attorney and the agent’s ID. Specific requirements can be found on the embassy’s official website.

Q Is a notarized document permanently valid?

A Notarization confirms the authenticity of the signature and identity, but the validity of the document itself depends on its legal nature. It’s recommended to confirm the validity period based on the intended use.

5. Conclusion

As U.S.-China exchanges continue to deepen, more individuals and businesses are facing the challenges of cross-border legal affairs. The notary services offered by the U.S. Embassy in China play a vital role in bridging the legal systems of the two countries. With proper preparation and planning, these services can help you avoid unnecessary hassle and delays.

For those who need them, understanding the scope, procedures, and key points of these services can save time and effort, and ensure the legal validity of documents-making the entire notarization process as smooth and efficient as possible.