Job83 practical guide
Certified documents for job applications
Understand when certified copies may be requested and how to avoid sending unnecessary personal documents.
Why this matters
A certified copy is a copy confirmed against an original by an authorised person. Requirements differ: some employers request documents only later, while a specific advert may request them with the application.
What you need
- The exact advert wording
- Original documents where certification is required
- Clear copies with all edges visible
- A check of any certification-age requirement
Practical steps
- Confirm which documents are requested and at what stage.
- Use an accepted certification service.
- Check stamps, dates, signatures, and page clarity.
- Scan without cutting off details.
- Send through the official application channel only.
Common mistakes
- Certifying documents that were not requested
- Sending expired or unreadable certification
- Sharing identity documents through unverified chats
- Assuming every employer uses the same certification period
How to apply this guidance
Timing depends on the advert
Departments and employers may request supporting documents at different recruitment stages. Do not rely on an old vacancy or general social-media advice. Read the current notice for document type, certification age and whether copies are required with the initial application.
Readable copies still need secure delivery
Check that names, dates, stamps and page edges are visible, then send them only through the official channel. Store application copies privately and avoid forwarding identity documents into unverified group chats.
Safety checks
- Never pay a recruiter, intermediary, or employer for a job or interview.
- Use the contact and submission method in the official vacancy; verify unexpected changes independently.
- Send identity and supporting documents only when the advert requires them and the recipient is legitimate.
Frequently asked questions
Must I certify every CV attachment?
No. Follow the vacancy instructions.
Should I email my ID to a recruiter who contacts me unexpectedly?
Verify the recruiter and vacancy through an independent official channel first.
Primary sources and verification
Job83 guidance supports preparation; the current vacancy and receiving department remain authoritative.