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First of all, what does apostille mean? Apostille is what you need in order to certify your documents. This means that files with an apostille have an authenticated origin, therefore stating that their contents are legitimate. Documents with this have undergone the certification of the authenticity of the signature and seal on the document.
If you need to submit documents abroad for a particular reason, your documents must be authenticated. In Canada, however, we don’t offer an apostille. This is because our country is not a signatory to the Hague Apostille Convention. So far, there are 115 countries that have participated in this convention. Apostilled documents can be legally used in countries that have signed the apostille.
So, what now? You don’t have to worry as Canada has a process that is universally equivalent to the apostille process. This Canadian version is called document authentication and legalization.
Learn More about the Process
The document authentication and legalization process in Canada is a three-step process. This is a critical part of the journey and each step must be done. Learn more about these steps below:
You can start the process by completing the preparation of the necessary documents first. You have to make sure that all of these files are original and have been notarized by a lawyer or notary public.
Once you have your original documents notarized, the next step is to have them authenticated by The Ministry of Global Affairs in Ottawa. Take note that it has only one branch in Canada, so you must go there.
It may be much of a hassle if you are living away from Ottawa. Another factor to consider is the ongoing pandemic. Because of COVID-19, Global Affairs doesn’t allow individuals inside the facility. In this case, you need an agent or a private company to do it for you.
All documents must also be legalized by the embassy of the country you’re planning to visit or go to. This step is as important as the first two.
It’s best to have certified copies on hand, as some countries put this as a requirement. If you’re applying for a private company, you need to have an authorization letter as well. Other requirements that are best to prepare are your application form and the money order.
If your documents have a foreign language in them, they need to undergo a certified translation. Documents are only recognized if they are translated by an acknowledged translation association or a Canadian Translators, Terminologists, and Interpreters Council member.
Hire Globeia Today
The entire process of having your documents authenticated and legalized is like navigating a long road. There may be issues that could arise along the way, as there are different steps for different cases. If you want to secure that you’ll have this process finally crossed out of your to-do list, it’s always best to seek help from the experts.
Globeia is highly knowledgeable in the process of document authentication and legalization. We are also able to fix any problem that may arise. All you have to do is contact us through our phone number and email listed below. Our lines are also open should you have questions and quote requests. Once you have decided to get our service, you need to send us your documents. Our office address is also listed below:
Address: 1185 Victoria Park Avenue, Scarborough, Ontario M4B 2K5
We are facing a dilemma that affects communities across the globe. Globeia is aware of the COVID-19 situation and the problems arising from it. Because of this, we are more than committed to providing only first-rate services that save you time, effort, and money. Hopefully, through our services, we help you fight the current crisis to strongly and resiliently rise above it. We are with you every step of the way.
Take note that this article only intends to inform and educate readers, so as to help them with similar problems they might have. Any text or information from this publication should not, in any way, be taken as legal advice. We also disclaim any responsibility for the damages that may occur out of the details laid out here. It’s always ideal to consult with an experienced legal counsel to learn more about a certain subject and the processes involved. In addition, we do not take any responsibility to update content that was posted in the past.