Notarial certification of a signature is one of the most common reasons for contacting a notary in Israel. This procedure guarantees to government authorities, banks, and counterparties that the document was signed by the exact person whose name appears in it, and that the person did so voluntarily and while of sound mind.
In 2026, despite the development of digital services, Israeli legislation remains strict: a notary can confirm the authenticity of a physical signature only with full compliance with the required procedure. Attorney and notary Elena Gomelski (גומלסקי ילנה) performs signature certification at her office in Tel Aviv (Jaffa) quickly and in full accordance with the Notaries Law.
When is signature certification required?
An ordinary signature is often not enough for legally significant actions. Notarial confirmation is required in the following situations:
- Banking transactions: mortgage registration (mashkanta), opening corporate accounts, or transferring large sums.
- Real estate transactions: signing sale and purchase agreements, especially if the transaction takes place outside Israel.
- Corporate documents: registration of changes in the Companies Registrar (Rasham HaChavarot) or transfer of shares.
- Legal declarations. If you need to confirm facts for court, you may need a notarial declaration under oath (Affidavit), which also includes mandatory certification of your signature.
Main rule: personal presence is mandatory
The most common questions from clients are: “Can I sign at home and have my wife bring the document to the office?” or “Can a signature be certified via Zoom?”
The answer under Israeli law is clear: NO.
The Notaries Law strictly requires the signer to:
- Appear personally before the notary.
- Present the original identity document — Teudat Zehut or a valid foreign passport (Darkon / foreign passport). A driver’s license is not suitable for notarial identification.
- Sign the document only in the presence of the notary.
If you have already signed the document in advance, you will have to sign it again directly in front of notary Elena Gomelski.
Certification procedure at the Tel Aviv office
The process at our office takes no more than 15–20 minutes and consists of three stages:
- Identification: the notary checks your identity document.
- Verification of understanding: the notary makes sure that you understand the essence of the document you are signing, especially if it is written in a foreign language.
- Signing and issuing: you sign the document, after which the notary prepares the notarial act with her red seal.
Note: if the document is intended for use abroad, after the signature is certified, an Apostille stamp must be placed on the notarial act at the court.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What should be done if a person cannot come to the office due to health reasons?
If the signer is in a hospital, nursing home, or cannot leave home due to health reasons, Israeli law allows the notary to visit the client. The notary visit service is paid additionally according to the Ministry of Justice tariff.
Does the notary certify the content of the document itself?
No. During the signature certification procedure (אימות חתימה), the notary confirms only the fact that you personally signed the document. Responsibility for the content of the document and its legality rests with you.
Can a minor’s signature be certified?
A minor cannot independently sign legal documents. In such cases, the presence and signatures of the minor’s legal guardians — both parents — are required.
Do you urgently need to certify a signature on documents?
The office of attorney and notary Elena Gomelski is conveniently located in central Tel Aviv. We guarantee fast service without long waiting times.
Phone: 03-375-1178
Online request: Leave your contact details through the contact form on this page, and we will schedule a convenient time for your visit.
