Virginia § 55.1-616 - "Notarial acts" defined; who may perform notarial acts outside the Commonwealth for use in the Commonwealth
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 55.1-616 — "Notarial acts" defined; who may perform notarial acts outside the Commonwealth for use in the Commonwealth, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 55.1-616. "Notarial acts" defined; who may perform notarial acts outside the Commonwealth for use in the Commonwealth
A. For the purposes of this article, "notarial acts" means acts that the laws and regulations of the Commonwealth authorize notaries public of the Commonwealth to perform, including the administering of oaths and affirmations, taking proof of execution and acknowledgments of instruments, and attesting documents.
B. Notarial acts may be performed outside the Commonwealth for use in the Commonwealth with the same effect as if performed by a notary public of the Commonwealth by the following persons authorized pursuant to the laws and regulations of other governments in addition to any other person authorized by the laws and regulations of the Commonwealth:
1. A notary public authorized to perform notarial acts in the place in which the notarial act is performed;
2. A judge, clerk, or deputy clerk of any court of record in the place in which the notarial act is performed;
3. An officer of the foreign service of the United States, a consular agent, or any other person authorized by regulation of the U.S. Department of State to perform notarial acts in the place in which the notarial act is performed;
4. A commissioned officer in active service with the Armed Forces of the United States and any other person authorized by regulation of the armed forces to perform notarial acts if the notarial act is performed for one of the following or his dependents: a merchant seaman of the United States, a member of the Armed Forces of the United States, or any other person serving with or accompanying a member of the Armed Forces of the United States; or
5. Any other person authorized to perform notarial acts in the place in which the notarial act is performed.
1970, c. 719, § 55-118.1; 2019, c. 712.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 55.1-616
What does Code of Virginia § 55.1-616 cover?
Section 55.1-616 (""Notarial acts" defined; who may perform notarial acts outside the Commonwealth for use in the Commonwealth") is part of the Code of Virginia, the codified statutory law of Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Virginia § 55.1-616?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 55.1-616" (Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Virginia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Virginia attorney.
How does Virginia § 55.1-616 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Virginia.