I'm Not a U.S. Citizen. Do I Have to Use a Virginia Online Notary?

One of the most common misconceptions about Remote Online Notarization (RON) is that non-U.S. citizens must use a Virginia online notary. While Virginia was the first state to authorize Remote Online Notarization back in 2012, that is no longer the case.

Today, many states have adopted Remote Online Notarization laws and have implemented secure identity verification methods that allow qualified international signers—including those who are not U.S. citizens and who do not possess U.S.-issued identification—to complete notarizations online.

Why Does Everyone Talk About Virginia?

Virginia pioneered Remote Online Notarization, and for many years it was one of the few options available for people signing documents from outside the United States.

Because of that history, many attorneys, title companies, and individuals still assume Virginia is the only state that can perform these notarizations.

The reality is that Remote Online Notarization has evolved significantly. Today, multiple states have laws and approved technology that can verify international signers and complete legally compliant online notarizations.

Can I Use a Notary From Another State?

In many cases, yes.

The most important factor is not your citizenship—it's whether the online notary is legally authorized to:

• Verify your identity using methods approved by their state.

• Accept the identification documents you possess.

• Perform the specific type of notarization your document requires.

• Meet any requirements imposed by the receiving agency.

If those conditions are met, you often have options beyond Virginia.

When Would I Need a Specific State?

There are situations where an agency, lender, government office, or receiving organization specifically requires that the notarization be completed by an online notary commissioned in a particular state. This is typically due to the organization's internal policies or document processing procedures—not because another state's notarization would otherwise be invalid.

If your instructions specifically state that you must use a notary from a certain state, you should follow those instructions. Otherwise, there may be several states that can legally complete your online notarization.

We Can Help You Find the Right Solution

Every situation is different. Your citizenship, the country where you're located, the identification you have available, the type of document, and the agency receiving it all play a role in determining the best Remote Online Notary for your transaction.

Whether you are:

• A U.S. citizen living abroad,

• A foreign national,

• A dual citizen,

• Or someone without U.S.-issued identification,

  
  

our nationwide network can help determine the appropriate online notary for your specific circumstances.

Don't assume you have to use Virginia simply because you've heard that's the only option. We'll review your situation and connect you with a qualified Remote Online Notary who can legally perform your notarization whenever possible.

Need your document notarized online? Contact us today. Whether you are a U.S. citizen or not, we'll help you find the right Remote Online Notary for your needs.