Certified True Copy

What is a Certified True Copy?

A certified true copy is a copy of an original document that has been verified by a qualified professional as being a full copy of the original document. In Hong Kong, financial institutions and banks often required certified true copy of documents to fulfil their anti-money laundering obligations. A certified true copy is stamped, signed and dated confirming that the said copy is a true copy of the original document.

What is a Notary Public?

A notary public is a legal professional authorised to verify and authenticate documents, among other responsibilities. In Hong Kong, notaries public typically certify documents intended for use in foreign jurisdictions, giving them official recognition abroad and providing assurance to foreign authorities that the documents have not been altered and that the signatures are legitimate.

What is the Purpose of a Certified True Copy?

A certified true copy of a document is often a practical and safe way to make a complete and accurate copy of an important document (identity documents, proof of address, banking records) which can be sent to third parties whilst insuring that the original document does not get damaged or lost in the process.

How Long is it Valid For ?

Certified true copies do not expire. However, most financial institutions and government will usually be reluctant to accept certified true copy older than 3 months. If in doubt, you better ask whoever is requesting you to provide a certified true copy of a given document.

Our Certified True Copy Format:

Our certified true copy of a document will include the following information:

• a statement for the person making the certification, “CERTIFIED TRUE COPY BY”;
• the CPA’s name;
• the CPA’s signature;
• the CPA’s Practising Certificate Number;
• the CPA’s HKICPA Number;
• the date on which the certification was performed; and
• the contact details of our CPA firm including our firm name, office address, telephone number and fax number.

Please see below a typical certification chop that would appear on a certified true copy.

In Hong Kong, the language of the certification statement is expected to be in English or Chinese. Usually, the government or financial institutions will not accept the certification statement in any other language.

Custom Format

If the government or financial institution requesting the certified true copy requires a specific wording, please let us know and we will make sure that our certified true copy meets their requirements.

Fee and Turnaround Time

Our fee is HK$200 for preparing a certified true copy of a document.

Certified true copies are prepared immediately during your appointment. Once you visit our office with the original documents, the certification process is completed on the spot—no waiting, no follow-up required. This same-day service ensures you get your certified documents quickly and efficiently.

Scheduling an Appointment

If you have additional questions which are not addressed here or wish to schedule an appointment, please contact us by telephone on ‪+852 2838 2839‬, by WhatsApp ‪(+852 9198 1993‬) or by email at ken@kensocpa.com.