Authentication, also called consular authentication, refers to a consular practice ensuring authenticity of the very last signature or the seal affixed to a document related to the application from a natural person, legal person or other organization. In accordance with international practice and the consular practice established in China, the purpose of consular authentication is to ensure that notarial deeds issued in one country have due legal effect and can be acknowledged by the relevant authorities in another country with no question as to their authenticity.

Chinese Embassies and Consulates-General are responsible for legalizing notarized deeds to be used in China and other documents that have been duly authenticated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the country or the related authorities where the consular authentication application is to be accepted.