Sending documents to another country? Unlike local paperwork, international documents often require more than just a notary stamp. They require a rigorous verification process known as Authentication and Legalization (or Apostille).
At Notary Lawyer Scarborough, we specialize in navigating this complex bureaucracy. Because we are ODS (Official Document Services) Registered, our signatures are recognized by the Ontario government, Global Affairs Canada, and foreign embassies.
Services start at just $30.
As of January 11, 2024, Canada has joined the Hague Apostille Convention. This is great news for you because it simplifies the process for over 120 countries.
The Old Way (Authentication & Legalization): You needed a red seal from Canada plus a stamp from the foreign consulate.
The New Way (Apostille): For most countries (like the USA, India, Philippines, UK), you now only need one certificate: the Apostille.
The Exception: If the destination country is not a member of the convention (e.g., UAE, China, Vietnam), the traditional 2-step legalization process is still required.
Confused? Don’t be. Bring your documents to us. We will determine exactly which process your destination country requires.
We provide end-to-end support for all international document needs:
First, almost all documents must be signed by a Canadian Lawyer or Notary Public. Because we are lawyers, our signatures are on file with [Official Document Services] (ODS), ensuring they won’t be rejected during the authentication step.
If your document is going to a Hague Convention country, we assist in obtaining the Apostille Certificate from the Government of Ontario or Global Affairs Canada. Consequently, your document becomes valid for use immediately.
However, for non-Hague countries, we manage the full traditional cycle:
Authentication: Getting the government seal (Provincial or Federal).
Legalization: Submitting the documents to the specific foreign embassy or consulate in Toronto or Ottawa.
Frequently, clients ask us to help with:
Birth Certificates, Marriage Certificates, Criminal Record Checks (RCMP), and Degrees/Diplomas.
Articles of Incorporation, Commercial Invoices, and Power of Attorney for use abroad.
Court orders and Affidavits.
You can try to do this yourself, but it is risky.
Specifically, if the Notary's signature is not properly registered with ODS, the government will reject your document, causing weeks of delay.
Each consulate has different fees, forms, and submission rules. Fortunately, we deal with them daily and know exactly what is required.
Instead of driving to downtown Toronto or mailing documents to Ottawa yourself, let us handle the courier and submission process.
Notarization verifies the identity of the signer (you). Legalization (or Authentication) verifies the identity of the Notary. Foreign governments need to know that the Notary is a real, licensed legal professional in Canada.
It varies. Generally, obtaining an Ontario Apostille can take 5-15 business days depending on government processing times. However, full legalization involving foreign consulates can take longer. We will provide you with an estimated timeline when you visit.
Yes. We frequently create [Certified True Copies] of passports and degrees, which are then sent for authentication. Note: For government documents (like birth certificates), you usually need to order a new "Long Form" original from the government; you cannot just copy the one you have at home.
Stop worrying about international red tape. Visit Notary Lawyer Scarborough for expert assistance.
Call Us: +1 (416) 840-7534
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