Document apostille is a crucial step required to use Canadian documents abroad. Every year, thousands of Canadians find out they need to apostille specific documents for use in a foreign country, but few of us have any knowledge or experience with this often confusing process.
What is the purpose of document apostille?
Document apostille is a required process used to confirm the authenticity of a Canadian document, so that this document will be officially recognized in another country. The term apostille refers to a little known convention, called the Hague Apostille Convention.
If the document is destined for a non-apostille member country, it will need a further process, called document legalization.
Where do I apostille a document in Canada?
Document apostille is done with apostille authority in Canada who holds jurisdiction over the origins of your documents. Where you documents were issued, and/or notarized will determine which office can be used.
For more information about these offices, take a look at this additional resource: Your Go-To Checklist To Ensure Your Canadian Documents Are Apostille-Ready
How do you get a document apostilled?
The Canadian apostille process is required to have your documents certified for use in a foreign country.
Step 1 – Prepare your documents for processing. Preparing your documents for processing may require having your documents notarized, having certified true copies made, having your documents translated, and providing additional supporting documents (where applicable).
Step 2 – Document apostille. The apostille office staff will review your documents. If all is in order, they will place a certificate of apostille directly on your documents, confirming they have been apostilled. If your documents a going to another apostille member country, you have completed the process. If your documents are going to a non-apostille country, you have one more step to complete.
Step 3 – Document legalization at the relevant embassy or consulate. The final step of the process is to have your documents legalized at the embassy or consulate of the country in which you need to present your documents. The consular staff will confirm the documents have been apostilled and that they otherwise meet all requirements set by the embassy or consulate. If satisfied, they will place a stamp, sticker, or certificate of confirmation directly on your documents, confirming they have been legalized. Your documents will now be officially recognized in this country.
How long will the apostille process take?
The apostille processing time varies by apostille office. It can take as little as one day to three weeks. If you require expedited apostille services, we recommend you contact us in advance. We will give you the information you need, and can also handle the process on your behalf.
Can I get help with the apostille of my documents?
As Canada’s leading apostille service provider, we can certainly help you! We apostille many thousands of documents for our clients every year, processing documents rapidly and reliably. The first step is to contact us for a free consultation. We’ll explain the process, answer your questions, and clearly outline your options – no pressure and no obligation. Phone us toll-free at 1-888-433-1011, or submit a quick online enquiry and we’ll get right back to you.
