How long does an apostille take? Great question!
The quick answer is that getting an apostille can vary in length of time. This is because the document apostille process can take between one day and several weeks, depending on a few factors that will affect which apostille office you must use for the apostille.
A more detailed explanation is that each apostille office in Canada only accepts documents from a specific jurisdiction, based on the origins of the documents. Each of these offices also has its own rules and processing times. Below you will find a list of each apostille office, its jurisdiction, and its standard processing time.
Apostille Office Jurisdictions and Processing times
| Apostille Office | Jurisdiction | Processing time (by mail) |
| Global Affairs Canada, JLAC | Manitoba,New Brunswick,Newfoundland & Labrador,Nova Scotia,Northwest Territories,Nunuvut,Prince Edward Island,Yukon | 15-30 business days |
| Official Documents and Appointments | Alberta | 7-10 business days |
| BC Authentication Program | British Columbia | 15-20 business days |
| Official Documents Services | Ontario | 15-30 business days |
| Délivrance des apostilles – Ministère de la Justice | Quebec | 20-30 business days |
| Authentication Services – Ministry of Justice | Saskatchewan | 5-10 business days |
These apostille offices have specific requirements, and they can change at anytime. We suggest you do your research in advance to be sure you meet the criteria of the apostille process.
The processing times may also vary depending on the current volume of submissions, and whether offer in-person services. Many of the apostille offices only accept mail-in services.
We can provide a faster turn-around time for Ontario apostilles. Because we can go in person, we can obtain an Ontario apostille in as little as a couple of days.
What is an Apostille?
An apostille is an official type of document certification that verifies the authenticity of a document from one country, for use in another country that is also a member of the Hague Apostille Convention. The apostille process simplifies the document verification process by avoiding the need for further steps to legalize the documents through a diplomatic mission.
For more information about the history and details of the Hague Apostille Convention, take a look at this helpful resource: The Hague Apostille Convention and Canada
Looking for More Information about Apostille Services?
We can ensure that we meet your document apostille needs efficiently and reliably. By utilizing our professional apostille services in Canada, individuals and businesses can avoid delays and ensure their documents are properly apostilled for international use. Whether for business, immigration, education, or legal purposes, International Documents Canada Inc. (IDC) is your trusted partner in handling Canadian document apostille services.
Contact us today to speak with a friendly apostille expert. Call us toll-free at 1-888-433-1011 or send us a quick online request form. We will be happy to hear from you and answer all your questions.
