What Documents Need to Be Notarized in Ontario?

If you live in Ontario and need a document notarized, it’s important to understand what can and cannot be notarized here. A notary public in Ontario is authorized to witness signatures, administer oaths, and certify true copies of documents. The notarization process makes your document legally recognized and trusted by institutions such as government offices, banks, schools, or even foreign authorities. Whether you are looking for an in-person notary in Brampton or prefer using an online notary service, knowing the rules will save you time and avoid unnecessary issues.

One important rule to remember is that documents created in Ontario must be notarized in Ontario. For example, if you sign an affidavit, statutory declaration, or power of attorney here, then it needs to be notarized by an Ontario notary public. This process involves meeting the notary in person, showing valid identification, and signing the document in front of them. The notary will then sign and seal the document to confirm that it is valid. This makes the document acceptable for use in court, with government offices, or other official purposes.

A common question people ask is whether foreign documents can be notarized in Ontario. The answer is a little tricky. Technically, a notary in Ontario cannot notarize foreign documents directly. However, notaries are allowed to certify true copies of foreign documents. For example, if you have a foreign passport, birth certificate, or educational degree, a notary can make a certified copy that proves the copy matches the original. Many people in Brampton who are applying for immigration, study permits, or international business rely on this service. Other than certifying true copies, most notarized documents must be created and signed in Ontario.

Most common documents that require notarization in Ontario include:

1. Affidavits and statutory declarations – often used for court purposes, name changes, or immigration applications.

2. Powers of attorney – to give someone authority to act on your behalf.

3. Consent to travel letters – for children travelling abroad with one parent or relatives.

4. Business or legal contracts – to confirm that signatures are genuine.

The in-person notarization process is simple. You bring your unsigned document and valid government-issued photo ID to the notary’s office. The notary will verify your identity, witness your signature, and apply their official seal. If you need a commissioner of affidavits service, the process is very similar, since commissioners can also administer oaths and take affidavits. More and more people are also turning to online notary services in Ontario, which allow you to notarize certain documents through secure video calls. This is especially helpful if you live far from a notary or have a busy schedule.

Notarization in Ontario plays an important role in making your documents official and trusted. Whether you are preparing legal paperwork, handling immigration applications, or certifying copies of important records, working with a notary public in Brampton, Ontario ensures everything is done correctly. Always make sure the document is prepared properly before your appointment, and remember that Ontario notaries can notarize Ontario-made documents and certify foreign documents as true copies. By following these rules, you can save time and ensure your documents are legally valid wherever they are needed.