We've already talked about the importance of passport, both for tourists and Brazilians living in the United States. It is an essential document for boarding an international flight – including returning to Brazil. But, above all, it is the main (and often only) Brazilian identification document valid abroad.
In this sense, losing your passport can mean a huge headache. However, it is also not safe to walk around without an identification document. Given this impasse, something that can be very useful is to make a certified copy of your passport.
The certified copy is an alternative that guarantees that you have an identification document without placing your original document. This is because you can leave your passport at home or where you are staying and carry a certified copy with you. Mainly because certified copies are accepted by almost all bodies where a passport may be required.
Now read until the end and find out more details and how to request this document!
Check out our article ccomplete information about the Brazilian passport!
Notary's Office or Consulate?
If you are coming from Brazil, you may be wondering if the notarized copy is accepted in the United States.
Simple authentication at a Brazilian notary's office is not valid at American agencies. However, notarized copies are accepted at the Brazilian Consulate. So, if you need to use your copy to request other documents at the Consulate, there will probably be no problem. But if you want to have the certified copy on hand to use in the United States as an identification document, be aware that authentication at a Brazilian notary's office has no value.
Important: Certified copies, at a notary's office or at the Consulate, are not accepted as a travel document, only as an identification document. To travel you need to present the original document.
Where are copies certified by the Consulate accepted?
The Brazilian Consulate is an entity recognized by both Brazil and the United States. Therefore, Consulate authentication guarantees its use in several ways:
- In front of the Brazilian Consulate itself;
- In front of American authorities when approached on the street;
- At the hotel desk and at tourist attractions;
- In stores, when a document is requested along with the credit card;
- To request the TIN (Taxpayer Identification Number – Tax ID).
How to request a certified copy at the Brazilian Consulate
Requesting a certified copy of your passport is very simple! Just follow the step by step below:
- buy one money order from USPS for $5 per copy you wish to authenticate. The following are accepted: “Money Order” from USPS only (money orders issued by other agencies are not accepted);
- Make a simple copy of your passport;
The copy must not be notarized and if you wish to authenticate more than one copy or more than one document, each copy must be on a separate sheet.
- Check on website of the Consulate that serves your region What is the necessary procedure to request the document. Most Consulates do the service by mail and those that do it in person require prior scheduling in the consulate system (Check with the Consulate in your jurisdiction);
- Take or send along with a simple copy your original passport, in accordance with the Consulate's guidelines;
- If you are sending by mail, remember to include an extra stamped, self-addressed USPS envelope to return the documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Difference between ordinary and certified copy
A common copy is simply a reproduction of an original document, made through photocopying or scanning, without any official verification of its authenticity. Anyone with access to copying equipment can make a common copy, which means that, despite containing the same visual information as the original document, it does not have any legal value or guarantee of authenticity.
On the other hand, a certified copy is a reproduction of the original document that has been certified by a competent authority, such as a notary public or a consular authority, to confirm that it is a true copy of the original. During the authentication process, the notary or authority checks the original document, makes a copy and compares it with the original to ensure that both are identical. Then, a declaration of authenticity, with stamp and signature, is attached to the copy, making it a legally valid representation of the original document. This process adds a level of trust and credibility to the copy, officially recognized as a valid substitute in various legal and administrative situations.
Digital archiving
Digital archiving refers to the storage of documents and information in electronic format, rather than in physical format. This method has become increasingly popular due to its various advantages. Digitized documents are stored on servers, clouds or storage devices, allowing easy access, organization and sharing. A digital document can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection, making the process more efficient and convenient for individuals and organizations.
Digitizing documents also contributes to data preservation and security. Physical documents are subject to wear, damage or loss, while digital versions can be protected by cybersecurity measures, including encryption and regular backups. Additionally, the use of full-text search technology allows specific information to be quickly located within large volumes of digitized documents, something that is impractical with physical files. Digitalization also promotes sustainability by reducing the need for paper and physical storage space.
What are the benefits of having a certified copy of your passport?
Having a certified copy of your passport offers numerous benefits, especially for immigrants to the United States. Firstly, the certified copy serves as a safeguard in case the original passport is lost, stolen or damaged. In situations where the original passport is not available, the certified copy can be used as proof of identity and nationality, facilitating the recovery of lost documents or obtaining new travel documents.
Additionally, many government institutions and agencies require certified copies of important documents to process requests or validate information. For example, to open bank accounts, apply for employment, enroll in educational institutions, or for immigration and visa procedures, a certified copy of the passport may be required. Having this copy ready avoids delays and simplifies these processes, ensuring that you can provide the required documentation immediately.
Another important benefit is the convenience and security of not having to carry your original passport under all circumstances. Your passport is a vital document and losing it can cause significant inconvenience and risks. Using the certified copy for everyday situations, while the original is kept in a secure location, reduces exposure to these risks.
If you liked this information, see more useful content at our blog who can clarify your doubts about your documentation.
