As of January 11, 2024, Canada officially joined the Hague Apostille Convention, simplifying the process of validating Canadian documents for use abroad. But what exactly can be apostilled in Canada—and what cannot?
Whether you’re immigrating, studying, doing business, or marrying overseas, understanding what Canadian documents qualify for an apostille is essential.
Documents That Can Be Apostilled in Canada
Document examples include, but are not limited to:
1. Government-Issued Documents
- Birth certificates
- Marriage certificates
- Death certificates
- Divorce decrees
- Criminal record checks (RCMP or provincial police)
- Citizenship and immigration documents
2. Educational Documents
- Diplomas
- Degrees
- Transcripts (from recognized Canadian institutions)
- Letters of enrollment
3. Notarized Private Documents
- Documents notarized by a Canadian notary public can be apostilled. Examples include:
- Power of attorney
- Affidavits
- Single Status Declarations
- Consent letters for travel
- Corporate resolutions or agreements
- Employment letters
4. Corporate and Commercial Documents
- Articles of incorporation
- Certificates of good standing
- Trademark or patent registrations (from CIPO)
Documents That Cannot Be Apostilled
1. Documents from Outside Canada
Documents issued by foreign countries—even if used in Canada—must be apostilled or legalized in the country of origin.
2. Non-Original or Un-official Documents
- Photocopies that are not notarized
- Drafts or unsigned contracts
- Non-certified translations
- Religious documents
3. Certain Digital Documents
Unless digitally certified and accepted by the issuing authority for apostille, some PDF or online-only records may be ineligible.
Important Note:
Each province in Canada designates its own competent authority for issuing apostilles. For example:
- Ontario: Official Documents Services (ODS)
- British Columbia: Ministry of Attorney General
- Alberta: Official Documents and Appointments
- Quebec: Ministry of Justice
- Saskatchewan: Ministry of Justice and Attorney General
- Remaining provinces and federal: Global Affairs Canada (JLAC)
Make sure your document is issued and notarized in the same province or jurisdiction where you are requesting the apostille.
Final Thoughts
The apostille process is now faster and more efficient for Canadians, but only if your document meets eligibility criteria. Always verify with the competent authority or a document apostille service provider to avoid delays.
Optimize your international success by ensuring your Canadian documents are apostille-ready.
More Information about Apostille Services
International Documents Canada (IDC) fulfills 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.
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.
