Over 200,000 registered nurses with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) face the challenge of properly certifying their identification documents. We will walk you through everything you need to know about notarized photo IDs—from local regulations to international requirements.
What Are Notarized Photo IDs and Why Do Nigerian Nurses Need Them?
A notarized photo ID is essentially a photocopy of your original identification document that has been certified by a Notary Public. This certification transforms a simple photocopy into a legally recognized document that confirms your identity and the authenticity of your credentials.
For Nigerian nurses, these certified documents serve as the backbone of professional mobility. Whether you’re registering with regulatory bodies, applying for international positions, or pursuing further education, properly notarized identification documents are your passport to success. As we say in Nigeria, “A stitch in time saves nine”—getting your documents properly notarized early can prevent months of delays later.
Legal Foundation for Notarization in Nigeria
The legal validity of notarized documents in Nigeria stems from Section 104 of the Evidence Act, 2011, which mandates certification of public documents. This provision ensures that certified copies can be used as evidence in administrative and judicial proceedings. With approximately 3,000 commissioned Notaries Public across Nigeria, these legal professionals hold the authority to authenticate your documents and make them acceptable both domestically and internationally.
When Do Nigerian Nurses Need Notarized Photo IDs?
Domestic Regulatory Requirements
Initial Registration with NMCN When first registering with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria, you’ll need to submit notarized copies of identification documents to verify your identity. This verification is fundamental to ensuring that only qualified professionals enter the nursing profession.
Annual License Renewal Each year, over 100,000 active Nigerian nurses complete the Professional Update Form (PUF) to maintain their licensure status. This process typically requires submission of notarized identification documents to confirm your identity remains consistent with NMCN records.
International Credential Verification
The path to international practice is paved with notarized documents. Various verification services have specific requirements:
CGFNS Certification Program® This program, essential for nurses seeking to practice in the United States, requires notarized copies of:
- A valid passport
- A secondary government-issued photo ID
Your documents must reflect your current legal name without abbreviations. Name consistency across all submissions is critical—discrepancies can delay your application by up to 6 months!
VisaScreen®: Visa Credentials Assessment If your destination is the United States, the VisaScreen® certification is mandatory. This process requires notarized identification documents to satisfy federal screening requirements for healthcare professionals.
Credentials Verification Service for New York State® For nurses targeting New York State, this service requires notarized photocopies of valid identification cards and signed, notarized attestation forms.
Credentials Verification for New Zealand (CVS-NCNZ) New Zealand-bound nurses must submit notarized copies of two forms of identification, with one being a valid passport. The documents must verify your current name without abbreviations.
Visa and Immigration Processes
Embassy applications invariably require notarized identification documents. Countries like the USA, UK, Canada, and New Zealand rely on these certified documents to verify your identity during visa processing. Failure to provide properly notarized documents can result in application rejections or significant delays.
Employment and Academic Opportunities
In today’s competitive job market, employers increasingly request notarized IDs for thorough background checks. In fact, over 90% of international nursing recruitment cases require verified identification. Similarly, educational institutions often demand notarized documents during admission processes for further studies.
Legal and Civil Documentation
Life changes require document updates. Approximately 15% of nurses annually undergo name changes due to marriage or other legal reasons, necessitating notarized IDs for updating their professional records.
How to Obtain a Notarized Photo ID: Step-by-Step Process
Securing a properly notarized photo ID involves a straightforward process:
- Prepare Your Documents: Gather your original identification document (passport, national ID, driver’s license) and make a high-quality photocopy.
- Locate a Notary Public: Find a commissioned Notary Public in your area. Law firms, some banks, and dedicated notary services can provide this service.
- Appear in Person: Visit the notary with both your original document and the photocopy. Personal appearance is crucial as the notary must verify your identity.
- Verification Process: The notary will compare the original with the copy, ensuring they match exactly.
- Certification: Once satisfied, the notary will certify the photocopy by adding their official seal, signature, and certification statement.
The average notarization fee in Nigeria ranges from ₦2,000 to ₦5,000 per document, though prices may vary based on location and the notary’s discretion.
For nurses who face challenges accessing local notaries, online notarization services like NotaryCam are gaining popularity, especially for international submissions.
CGFNS-Specific Requirements for Nigerian Nurses
The Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) has particular requirements that Nigerian nurses must adhere to:
Identity Document Requirements
- Only notarized photocopies of identification documents are accepted. Never send original documents.
- You must submit a notarized copy of a valid passport AND another government-issued photo ID.
- All documents must reflect your current legal name without abbreviations.
Name Consistency Issues
Name consistency across all documents is non-negotiable. Mismatches can cause application delays of 3-6 months! If your name has changed due to marriage or other reasons, you must submit additional notarized documents (such as marriage certificates) to establish the connection between different names.
Document Submission Options
- Submit documents online through the CGFNS Applicant Portal or by mail/courier.
- If local notaries are inaccessible, consider online notarization services approved by CGFNS.
Frequently Asked Questions About Notarized Photo IDs
How long is a notarized ID valid?
Notarized IDs generally remain valid for 3 to 6 months, depending on the receiving institution’s policies. Always check the specific requirements of your destination organization.
Which identification documents can be notarized?
Common acceptable documents include:
- Passport
- National ID card
- Driver’s license
- Voter’s card
What are the typical costs associated with notarization?
In Nigeria, notarization fees typically range from ₦2,000 to ₦5,000 per document. For international services like CGFNS verification, additional fees apply (ranging from $300-$380 USD, excluding notarization costs).
Are Nigerian notarized IDs accepted internationally?
Yes, Nigerian notarized IDs are widely accepted by regulatory bodies in the USA, UK, Canada, New Zealand, and many other countries. However, some nations may require additional authentication, such as apostille certification.
How do I handle name discrepancies across documents?
Submit notarized copies of supporting documents that explain the name change (marriage certificates, court orders, affidavits). These should be uploaded to your application portal or included with your submission package.
Conclusion: Securing Your Professional Journey with Proper Documentation
For Nigerian nurses, notarized photo IDs represent more than mere paperwork—they’re essential tools that unlock professional opportunities domestically and internationally. By understanding the requirements and following proper procedures, you can avoid unnecessary delays and frustrations in your career advancement.
Whether you’re registering with NMCN, applying for international credentials verification, seeking employment abroad, or pursuing further education, properly notarized identification documents form the foundation of your professional journey.
Remember that consistency across all documents is crucial, particularly regarding your name. Taking the time to ensure all your identification documents are properly notarized and reflect your current legal name will save you considerable time and effort in the long run.