What a notary public does in the Cayman Islands
A notary public is a legally authorised official who witnesses signatures, administers oaths and affirmations, and certifies documents so they can be relied on in the Cayman Islands and overseas. A notary helps prevent fraud by confirming who is signing a document and that they sign it willingly.
How notaries are appointed
Notaries public are appointed under the Notaries Public Act (2023 Revision). The Notaries Public (Amendment) Act, 2026 provides for Cabinet to authorise the appointment of eligible applicants as notaries. The Cayman Islands Law Courts publish a register of notaries public.
Common notarial acts
- Witnessing a signature on a document
- Administering an oath or affirmation, for example on an affidavit
- Authenticating a document for use abroad, often followed by an apostille
Why overseas authorities ask for it
Many overseas authorities require a notarial certificate before they accept a document. The certificate is attached to the document and records that the signing took place in front of the notary.
Check your notary before you book
Confirm that your notary appears on the official register. Then compare fees, and ask what the notary will need from you on the day.
