Certified True Copies

Getting certified copies (CTC) of documents in China for use abroad

See also main website here: https://www.expatlegal.cn/certified-true-copy

Many situations require people living in China to get a certified true copy of a document (such as a passport, diploma, bank statement or proof of address) to use abroad. Common examples of where this is required include buying or selling real estate, applying for a mortgage, opening an investment account, applying for a visa, buying a car or accessing government services. The documents being certified can be Chinese or international (i.e.: a British passport or a German diploma), and can be in any language, so long as the original can be provided for verification.

Certified copies can be made by a Chinese lawyer after examining the original document. A digital copy is made and a special certification attached to it which is signed and sealed with an official stamp. Chinese notary offices cannot provide certified copies.

What is the procedure to get certified copies made?

We offer two ways for having copies made: in-person or by post. After reviewing your originals, our lawyers will make the copies and perform the certification. This is handled either same-day or next-day.

If you are not in Shanghai, you can courier your documents to us, we will do the certification, and then securely send everything back to you by tracked delivery.

UK home buyers (mortgage applications): Your lender or estate agent may have specific requirements. If so, please include a copy in any correspondence with us so that we may best advise you.

Medical exam applicants: Persons requiring certified documents for the Medical Council of Canada (MCC) must attend our office in-person for ID verification as this is a strict requirement set by the MCC.

Can you send my certified copy abroad?

If the certified copies are going to someone in another country, we can courier the completed documents directly to them by FedEx.

How do I make arrangements to have certified copies made?

Use this simple contact form to get in touch. You'll receive a personal response within 24 hours.