A Canadian notarization on its own is often not enough for a document that will be used abroad. Most countries need the notary’s signature itself to be confirmed by the government, through an apostille or an authentication. This page explains the steps as they stand today so you can plan your visit.
The two-step process, in plain language
- Notarization at Notary Point. The document is signed before, or certified as a true copy by, a notary public. From $30 per document.
- Apostille or authentication by Official Documents Services (ODS). ODS, part of the Ontario government, confirms that the notary’s signature and seal are genuine. Since January 11, 2024, when the Hague Apostille Convention came into force for Canada, ODS issues an apostille for countries in the Convention and an authentication for the rest, which then goes to that country’s embassy or consulate for legalization.
What Notary Point does and does not do
We complete step one. We do not submit documents to ODS on your behalf. ODS accepts documents in person at its Toronto office, by mail, and through its online request service; see the Ontario government page “Authenticate a document for use outside Canada” for current locations, fees and processing times, which change from time to time.
Documents that commonly need this
- Powers of attorney for property abroad (very common for India, Pakistan, the Philippines, the Middle East and Europe)
- Single-status and no-impediment affidavits for marriage abroad
- Certified copies of passports, degrees and PR cards for foreign employers, universities and immigration
- Corporate documents for foreign business registration
- Adoption, inheritance and estate documents
Important: it must be done in person
Ontario does not permit remote or online notarization, and ODS will not apostille or authenticate a document that was notarized remotely. Every notarization at Notary Point is done face to face, which is exactly what ODS requires.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need notarization before an apostille?
For most privately signed documents and certified copies, yes. Some Ontario government documents, such as recent birth, marriage and death certificates, can be sent to ODS directly without notarization. Check the ODS list before you visit, or bring the document and we will tell you.
How long does the apostille take?
ODS publishes current processing times on its Ontario.ca page. Mail-in requests have typically taken several weeks; in-person service can be faster. Plan ahead.
My document is not in English or French. What then?
ODS may require a certified translation, and the destination country almost certainly will. We can point you to certified translators in Mississauga.
Can you certify a copy of the apostille itself?
The apostille is attached to the notarized document and should be sent as one package. Ask the receiving organization before making copies.