Changes to notarial services in China
On 1 January 2015, the way customers apply for notarial and documentary services in China will change.
![On 1 January 2015, the way customers apply for notarial and documentary services in China will change.](https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5a613e3640f0b60ab9a7b81e/s300_IMG_0907.jpg)
On 1 January 2015, the way customers apply for notarial and documentary services in China will change.
Customers will no longer be able to make appointments directly with the British Embassy in Beijing and Consulate-Generals in Chongqing, Guangzhou and Shanghai for notarial and documentary services. You will now need to read the new guidance, which can be found here, and send your application and supporting documents to china.notarial@fco.gov.uk for assessment. Consular staff will contact you within 5 working days of receipt of your application to advise if we are able to provide this service, and provide advice on how to make an appointment with the appropriate British Embassy/Consulate.
These changes do not apply to affirmations and affidavits for marriage in China. Please see Getting Married Abroad for information on how to apply for these documents.
The key benefit of the above change is to modernise the delivery of Consular Services and to focus resources where there is the most need, for example, assisting vulnerable British nationals in trouble in China.