International TEFL InstituteWhat is TEFL Authentication and how is this done?
There has been a lot of confusion when students are required by employers/agents to have their TEFL certificates authenticated. Authentication is required for documents where the country requiring the authentication is not a signatory to the Hague Convention e.g. China and Vietnam.
Some countries (e.g. China/Vietnam) may request that a job applicant have their TEFL certificate authenticated as this is required by the government in order to process work visas/permits. Often employers and agents will in many cases provide prospective teachers with false and inaccurate information which has further exacerbated the confusion.
So, how does one have a TEFL certificate authenticated? Firstly, it must be understood that only an original TEFL certificate with original signatures can be authenticated. This means that you cannot have a digital certificate (that you printed out from your computer) authenticated. So, if you have been issued with a digital certificate by your TEFL course provider — then request/order a hard copy with original signatures.
Now, once you have your original TEFL certificate in your hand – you will need to take it to a Notary Public in the country of issue to be notarized. Then, once the TEFL certificate has been notarized, it must be taken to the embassy concerned (e.g. Chinese/Vietnamese embassy) to be authenticated/legalized.
Authentication of a TEFL certificate can be an extremely time-consuming, stressful and expensive undertaking and has caused many a headache. It is recommended that you contact Vital Consular to take care of the authentication process on your behalf as it will be well worth the money spent. You can find detailed information on how this process works, by visiting our TEFL Certification page.
Process for ordering
If you wish to order a hard copy of your certificate to be apostilled or authenticated by Vital Consular on your behalf – then please follow the process outlined below:
- Firstly, fill in the online form and request a quote from Vital Consular to have your TEFL certificate authenticated or apostilled. All graduates of the International TEFL Institute are offered special rates. You must make arrangements with Vital Consular and pay them directly for their service.
- Order the hard copy of your certificate from us to be delivered via registered mail. Use the shipping address of Vital Consul and we´ll deliver your certificate directly to them.
- Once Vital Consular has completed the process, they will send the certificate directly to you.
Our students at the International TEFL Institute regularly use the services of Vital Consular to have their TEFL certificates apostilled and authenticated. You can contact Sarah Price ([email protected]) for further assistance.
*Students from South Africa can have their International TEFL Institute certificates apostilled or authenticated in South Africa by Be Authentic. You can contact Shaneil directly ([email protected]) for further details.
It is important to note that students/TEFL graduates should communicate with their employers/agents and request assistance with the process of having their TEFL certificates authenticated.
Links:
TEFL Courses & TEFL Training Programmes
TEFL Jobs & English Teaching Positions