Can someone sign via video or remote notarization if they cannot be physically present?

In short: yes. Under the right conditions. Let’s walk through how remote online notarization (RON) works in Virginia and what that means for you and your document-signing needs.

Example of an audiovisual call for a remote online notarization

Remote Online Notarization in Virginia — What the law says

Virginia was one of the first states to authorize electronic notarization and remote online notarization. Under the House Bill 2318 / Senate Bill 827 package, notaries and electronic notaries in Virginia may perform notarizations where the signer is not physically present with the notary, using audio-visual conferencing technology. (DocuSign)

Per Va. Code § 47.1-2, the definition section, “remote online notarization” means “an electronic notarization … where the signer is not in the physical presence of the notary.” (Virginia Law) And under § 47.1-16, when an electronic notarial certificate is used, it must indicate whether the notarization was done in person or by remote online notarization. (Virginia Law)

This means: If you’re using a Virginia-commissioned electronic notary, and you meet the requirements, signing via video is legally valid in Virginia.

What this means for you working with CloudSign Notary

When you choose CloudSign Notary for a remote signing, here’s how I handle it to make sure everything is compliant and clear:

• You’ll be connected via a secure video-audio platform, so I can see and hear you in real time — which meets the Virginia standard for remote notarization.

• I’ll verify your identity, using satisfactory evidence of identity, as required. Virginia law allows identity verification via video and audio conference, provided it meets standards (e.g., credential analysis, knowledge-based authentication, or other approved identity proofing). (Virginia Law)

• The notarial certificate will clearly state that the notarization was done by remote online notarization so the record is clear.

• The document will show the county or city where I was physically located (even though you were remote). That is required by § 47.1-16. (Virginia Law)

• You don’t need to be in the same room — which means if you’re in Richmond, or elsewhere in Virginia, or even out of state (depending on your situation), remote notarization may still serve.

  
  

Important caveats & best practices

While remote notarization is available and convenient, there are some things to keep in mind:

• The notary must be commissioned for electronic notarial acts (i.e., be an “electronic notary public” in Virginia). The law requires registration and compliance with technological standards. (NCRA)

• The platform and process must meet Virginia’s standards for security, identity verification and record-keeping. Choosing a vendor that meets those standards is the notary’s responsibility. (Virginia Governor's Office)

• Even if you are remote, you must still meaningfully appear before the notary — that is, I must reasonably believe you are who you say you are, you are signing willingly, and you understand what you’re doing.

• Not all document types may qualify in every scenario (for example, some types of estate or trust documents might have extra considerations). It’s always good to check specifics.

• If you are outside Virginia, additional rules might apply. The law addresses notarial acts outside the Commonwealth for use in the Commonwealth under § 47.1-13.1. (Old Republic Title)

  
  

Final Word

So yes — if you cannot physically appear with a notary, you can still sign via video for a notarization in Virginia — provided everything is done correctly and in line with Virginia law.

At CloudSign Notary, I’m set up to help you through that process: clear instructions, compliant platform, and the peace of mind that your notarization is valid and properly recorded.

If you’re ready to schedule a remote notarization, or you have questions about your specific document, location or signing situation — just reach out at 804-625-4975 and I’ll walk you through it.