Tips on uploading documents

Many of our online forms require you to upload evidence as part of the process. For example, you may need to add a copy of your current rental agreement when applying to join the housing list, or a copy of your log book when applying for a parking permit.

Many other online government services also need you to provide evidence like this.

Document format

The best format to upload documents in is a pdf. And some of our forms will only allow you to add documents in pdf or word format.

Creating electronic copies of your document

You do not need access to a scanner to get electronic copies of your documents. All you need is a smartphone or tablet with a camera.

There are a number of free apps you can download, that can turn photographs into a pdf. Two such are Adobe Scan and TapScanner (the free version).

Download Adobe Scan from:

• Google Play
• Apple App Store

Download Tapscanner from:

• Google Play
• Apple App Store

There are two ways to use them:

1. take photos of each page of the document, open the app, and follow the process to turn the photos into a pdf.
2. open the app and take the photos in the app, and follow the process to turn them into a pdf.

The second option is often easier.

Tips for getting the best results

• If the app you are using allows it, choose a small file size rather than the highest quality option.
• Make sure the pdf is clear and easy to read before adding it to your form:
  • Wipe your lens before taking the photo
  • Make sure the whole page is visible in the picture and nothing is cut out.

• In TapScanner, if your document has multiple pages:

1. open the camera in the app
2. then click “batch” to take photos of multiple pages in one go.

• Make sure pages are in the correct order.
• Use the editing options in the app:

1. Crop the photo to the corners of the document pages.
2. Then check if the filter options make it easier to read.