If you live in Virginia and need to notarize a will or other legal papers, you might be wondering if it’s possible to do this online—and the good news is, yes, you can. Virginia was one of the first states in the U.S. to allow online notarization. This means you don’t need to leave your house or meet someone in person to have your documents notarized. You can now do it from your computer or phone, as long as you follow the state’s rules. A helpful place to start is https://remotenotarez.com/local/states/virginia/.
So, how does online notarization work? It’s really just a video call with a notary public, who checks your ID, watches you sign your document, and then adds their official stamp to it—all through a secure website. Online notaries in Virginia go through specific training and must use state-approved platforms that keep your information private and safe.
Things like wills, powers of attorney, and other important papers can be notarized this way. But keep in mind: while Virginia allows electronic and remote notarization, you still need to follow a few extra steps if your document is a will. Virginia law requires that a will be signed by the person creating it (called the testator) and witnessed by two people. If you want to make a “self-proving” will, it also needs to be notarized. That part can now be done online, which saves time and helps if one of your witnesses lives in a different place.
Even though it’s convenient, make sure the document you’re notarizing is clearly understood by all involved. Online notaries are trained to explain the process, but they can't give legal advice. If you’re unsure about something in your will, it’s best to speak with a lawyer before you sign and notarize it.
One last tip: prepare ahead of time. Have your valid photo ID ready, and double check that your device’s camera and microphone work well. You’ll also need a strong internet connection, so everything goes smoothly during your notary appointment.
Online notarization in Virginia makes handling legal papers simpler than before. It’s a safe and legal option, especially for people who want to manage their documents from home.