How do I get a Canadian Document Apostilled?

What is an Apostille?

In Canada, an Apostille serves as confirmation that documents are authentic or have been notarized by a registered Canadian Notary making them recognized by countries as part of the Hague Apostille Convention. When using these Canadian documents in countries that require an Apostille, you’ll need to present them alongside an Apostille Certificate or stamp. This Certificate or stamp is essential for validating the legitimacy of the information when it crosses borders.

Upon the implementation of the new Apostille Convention in Canada on January 11, 2024, the process of certifying documents for acceptance in countries where the convention is effective has been streamlined, eliminating the need for legalization by a consular office of the destination country. This development aims to simplify the acceptance of Canadian public documents in over 120 countries that have signed the convention.

In Canada, Apostille Certificates are issued directly by government authorities in the provinces of Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan and Ontario, while Global Affairs Canada issues Apostille certificates for all other provinces and for documents issued by the Government of Canada, including federal government bodies.

This article will discuss the process of obtaining an Apostille for documents issued in Canada only. There is a different process for documents issued in other countries.

The Process to get an Apostille for a Canadian document

Step 1 – Determine whether your document is a public document

Some provincial government documents such as original provincial birth certificates, and public documents such as recent provincial court orders, can be submitted directly to receive an Apostille. Check the website of the provincial government authority or Global Affairs Canada to determine whether your document qualifies for direct submission.

Step 2 – Determine whether your document needs to be translated

If your document, or part of it, is in a language other than English or French, it must be translated before submission. Translations must be both certified and notarized. A certified translation is completed by a translator with the title of “certified translator,” granted by provincial regulatory bodies in Canada. When a translation is certified, it will include a declaration, signature, and seal from the translator. This signifies their responsibility for ensuring the accuracy of the translation. The translator must also swear an affidavit of translation before a notary public, which attests to the accuracy of the translation. Again, check the website of the relevant government authority for instructions on how each government authority requires you to translate the document.

Step 3: Get the document notarized if it is not a public document

Canadian documents that are not on the list of public documents that can be Apostilled directly will need to be notarized prior to submitting them for an Apostille. The provincial government authority and Global Affairs Canada will authenticate the seal and signature of the Canadian notary public as part of the process of issuing an Apostille.

During notarization:

● A Notary Public either witnesses you signing a document after verifying your identity through presentation of government issued identification or
● A Notary Public certifies a photocopy of an original document or piece of identification (such as a driver’s license) to be a true copy of the original by placing their signature and seal on the photocopy

Step 4: Submit your document to a Canadian government authority to receive the Apostille certificate

Be sure to check the website of the relevant government authority for up-to-date submission requirements.

How Can Red Seal Notary Help?

The process of obtaining an Apostille can be time-consuming and complicated. Red Seal Notary offers a reliable solution, streamlining the process with expertise in researching document requirements, obtaining certified translations, notarization, and efficient document submission. Whether for personal or business needs, our expert assistance ensures proper authentication, minimizes delays, and saves valuable time. Red Seal Notary even offers a 24 – 48 turn-around time if your documents originate in Ontario.

By availing yourself of Red Seal Notary’s assistance, you can easily navigate the complexities of the Apostille process, ensuring your documents are ready for international use. Trust Red Seal Notary for reliable and efficient service! Please visit our website at www.RedSealNotary.com or contact our helpful call center at 1-888-922-7325 to learn more about our apostille and authentication services.