Witnessing involves observing the execution of a document. Attestation involves the additional step of recording, on the document itself, that the witness has observed the execution. Typically, this is achieved by the witness signing an attestation clause which confirms that the document was duly executed in the presence of a witness.

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Witnessing of signatures

is carried out by a lawyer on documents such as statutory declarations, affidavits, and application forms. As part of the witnessing, the advocate and oath commissioner confirms that the person in question has signed the document in his presence and the advocate and oath commissioner has verified his identity through a passport or other applicable ID. This type of witnessing is often required by government authorities, embassies, banks, and other private bodies around the world to confirm that the person in question has indeed signed the document