A document that is not a copy. Sometimes the regulations allow you to submit a copy of a document instead of the original, but in that case, the copy should be certified (confirmed as a true copy of the original). A copy of the document may be certified by an official who receives the original document, then it is marked with a stamp and a signature of the responsible official. The authentication (certification) can also be performed by a notary public, as well as a legal adviser/attorney-at-law if acting as your proxy/representative.