Regulatory Alerts2023-10-24
No Authentication Required by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or Relevant Embassies for Foreign Documents Bearing an Apostille Certificate
The Central Bank issued Confirmatory Circular No. 2310250731E to resolve inconsistencies where certain banks and financial institutions rejected foreign public documents bearing an "Apostille" certificate due to missing Ministry of Foreign Affairs authentication. The directive mandates that all banks and financial institutions must accept such documents without requiring additional embassy or Ministry authentication, aligning with the Central Bank's prior instructions communicated via Circular No. 44073468 dated 15/09/1444 AH. All relevant branches and departments are formally notified to implement this acceptance requirement immediately across all operations.
Confirmatory Circular No. 2310250731E 1445/4/10 AH
Dear Sirs,
Peace, mercy and blessings of God be upon you.
Subject: No Authentication Required by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or Relevant Embassies for Foreign Documents Bearing an "Apostille" Certificate
Regarding the Central Bank's instructions communicated via Circular No. 44073468 (Appendix) dated 15/09/1444 AH, concerning the non-requirement of authentication for foreign documents bearing an "Apostille" certificate.
It has been observed that some banks and financial institutions do not accept foreign public documents bearing an "Apostille" certificate due to the absence of Ministry of Foreign Affairs authentication on them; therefore, and in light of the aforementioned instructions, the Central Bank confirms that all banks and financial institutions must comply with this. All relevant branches and departments are hereby notified accordingly.
Our regards,