What is an Apostille?

An Apostille verifies that a document was issued by the government, or that a notary public’s seal and signature belong to a licensed notary public. Apostilles are issued by competent provincial authorities or Global Affairs Canada.

There is a walk-in service at Official Document Services, 222 Jarvis Street, Toronto, Ontario. Official Document Services maintains a database of all notaries public in Ontario. An Apostille can be issued the same day, but there could be wait period of up to 15 days. Anyone can bring a notarized document for apostille; it does not have to be the person who signed it. If attending their office in person is not practical, there is a mail in option. More information can be found at:
https://www.ontario.ca/page/authenticate-document-use-outside-canada

If your document requires apostille by the federal government, you can bring it in person to 125 Sussex Drive, Ottawa. There is a mail in option, too:

  1. Fill in a Request for Authentication Service form: https://www.international.gc.ca/gac-amc/assets/pdfs/about-a_propos/services/authentication-authentification/ext2165e.pdf

  2. Then send it with your notarized document(s) and a self-addressed stamped envelope or prepaid courier label to: Global Affairs Canada Authentication Services Section (JLAC) 125 Sussex Drive Ottawa, ON Canada K1A 0G2

The federal government recognizes notary public seals from any Canadian jurisdiction. If you are outside Canada, check if the nearest Canadian embassy, high commission or consulate can authenticate the document. If not, you need to use the mail in option.

Apostille services are offered by private businesses. Please conduct your due diligence before retaining their services.

Changes as of January 11, 2024

https://www.international.gc.ca/gac-amc/about-a_propos/services/authentication-authentification/apostille-convention.aspx?lang=eng

This blog is not intended to serve as a comprehensive treatment of the topic. It is not meant to be legal advice. Every case turns on its specific facts and it would be a mistake for the reader of this blog to conclude how it might impact on the reader’s case. Nothing replaces retaining a qualified, competent lawyer, well versed in this niche area of practice.