Many immigration documents require notarization to deter fraud and ensure proper execution. However, it can be difficult to physically appear in front of a notary under social distancing orders. Thankfully, in Florida and many other states, you now have a new option available.

Effective January 1, 2020 (before COVID-19), Florida enacted a law authorizing Remote Online Notarization (RON). 

Under this law, notaries must complete a training course and register to perform online notarizations. Now, in response COVID-19, a new administrative order allows for any Florida notary to administer oaths for the notarization of documents remotely using audio-video technology.

The order provides that, for a temporary period, “Notaries in the State of Florida may swear a witness remotely by audio-video communication technology from a location within the State of Florida, provided they can positively identify the witness. If a witness is not located within the State of Florida, a witness may consent to being put on oath via audio-video communication technology.”

How Does Remote Online Notarization Work?

During the remote process, the parties connect over live video to verify the signer’s identity, witness the signature, and affix the notary stamp. Additionally, the notary must note that the signer appeared by means of online notarization. 

In this time of social distancing, exceptions like this one can be incredibly beneficial to your ability to move forward with your case.