If you’ve been told that in order to use a Canadian document in another country it will need to be apostilled, you might be wondering what to do next. Things can be a little confusing, as you can’t technically get an apostille in Canada because our country isn’t a signatory to the Hague Apostille Convention. Instead, Canada uses its own process, called document authentication and legalization. So if you have been told that you need to get an apostille on a Canadian document, what you will technically be doing is authenticating and legalizing this document. However, many people still use the term “apostille” for the Canadian process, so we’ll use this term as well.
For those who need to have a document apostilled (authenticated and legalized), the team from International Documents Canada has collected some valuable information for you here.
How Does it Work?
Getting an apostille on a Canadian document involves both Global Affairs Canada as well as the particular embassy or consulate of the country where you’ll be using your document. The purpose of the apostille process is to certify the authenticity of a document in a manner that will be officially recognized in a foreign country.
There are the three main steps to the Canadian apostille (authentication and legalization) process:
- Preparing Your Documents for Processing: Both Global Affairs Canada and each individual embassy and consulate set their own unique requirements for how documents must be prepared. Depending on your specific circumstances, this could involve notary services (notarization, certified true copies), translation, and providing various supporting documents. It is important to prepare your documents accurately the first time, as a mistake or omission will result in your documents being rejected, requiring you restart the process from the beginning. At International Documents Canada, we can let you know what requirements apply in your particular situation, and we can also provide notarial services and translation services to make this step easier for you.
- Getting Your Documents Authenticated: The second step in this process involves submitting your documents to Global Affairs Canada. Their staff will check that all is in order, and if satisfied will place a large red stamp directly on your documents, confirming they have been authenticated.
- Legalization by the Relevant Embassy: Lastly, your documents will be sent to the embassy or consulate of the country where they will be used. The consular staff will confirm that your documents meet all requirements, and if satisfied, will place a stamp, sticker or certificate directly on your documents, confirming that they have been legalized.
Your documents will now be recognized in this foreign country.
Contact us today for Canadian apostille services and more!
If you’re in need of an apostille on a Canadian document, or other authentication and legalization services, contact us online today or call 1 (888) 433-1011.
