General Affidavit Template for Singapore

A General Affidavit is one of the most important legal documents you can use in Singapore when you need to make sworn statements of fact. Whether you're involved in court proceedings, administrative matters, or business transactions, this document provides a formal way to present truthful information under oath with legal backing.

When do you need this document?

You'll need a General Affidavit in numerous situations throughout your personal and professional life in Singapore. Courts frequently require affidavits as evidence in civil litigation, family law matters, and criminal proceedings. Government agencies often request affidavits for immigration applications, business registrations, and licensing procedures. You might also need one for banking matters, insurance claims, property transactions, or when providing witness statements. Educational institutions sometimes require affidavits for overseas qualifications recognition, while employers may request them for background verification purposes.

Key legal considerations

Before preparing your affidavit, understand that this document carries significant legal weight and consequences. Your affidavit must contain only truthful statements, as making false declarations constitutes perjury under Singapore law, punishable by imprisonment. The document should be written in the first person, using clear and precise language without ambiguous terms. Each paragraph should be numbered consecutively, and any supporting documents must be properly exhibited and referenced. You must include your full personal details, including NRIC or passport number, occupation, and residential address. The affidavit becomes admissible evidence once properly sworn, so ensure all facts are accurate and complete before proceeding.

Legal requirements in Singapore

Singapore law imposes strict requirements for valid affidavits under the Oaths and Declarations Act (Chapter 211) and Rules of Court (Chapter 322, Rule 5). Your affidavit must be sworn before an authorized Commissioner for Oaths, typically a practicing lawyer admitted to the Singapore Bar, or a notary public if intended for overseas use. The document must include a proper jurat section detailing when, where, and before whom the oath was administered. You'll need to bring valid identification when swearing the affidavit, and the Commissioner must verify your identity before administering the oath. If English isn't your primary language, you may require an interpreter whose details must be recorded in the affidavit. The Evidence Act (Chapter 97) governs how your affidavit will be treated as evidence, while the Legal Profession Act (Chapter 161) regulates the lawyers who can assist with preparation and administration.