What Is a Life Certificate (Alive Certificate) and How Can a Notary Help?

A Life Certificate, also known as an Alive Certificate, is a document used to confirm that a person is still alive. It is often requested by foreign pension authorities, insurance companies, or government organizations, especially when someone is receiving benefits from another country. These institutions use the certificate to make sure that benefits like pensions are going to the rightful recipient and to prevent fraud or misuse of funds.

If you live in Canada and receive a pension from another country, you may be asked to submit this certificate each year. It might seem confusing at first, but it’s actually a simple process — especially with the help of a Notary Public.

This certificate plays a crucial role in preventing pension fraud and overpayments, especially when the recipient is residing abroad. Many countries request this document on a yearly basis or at regular intervals to ensure their records are accurate.

Why Do I Need a Life Certificate?

You may need a Life Certificate if:

• You are retired and receiving a pension from another country (e.g., India, Mauritius, U.K., Germany).

• A foreign government agency or private pension provider needs to confirm you are alive to continue your benefits.

• You are dealing with an inheritance or estate matter that requires proof of life.

• An insurance company is requesting it for claim verification.

• A bank or legal body in another country requires this confirmation to release or continue funds.

The requirement is usually part of standard international pension procedures for Canadians who have worked abroad or have family ties in other countries.

What Does It Mean to Have a Life Certificate Notarized?

To notarize a Life Certificate means a licensed Notary Public confirms and certifies that:

• You appeared in person or online in front of the notary.

• Your identity was verified using valid government-issued photo identification.

• You signed the certificate voluntarily.

• You are physically alive and mentally alert at the time of signing.

The notary will complete the required section of your Life Certificate form, add their official seal and signature, and sometimes a notarial affidavit, depending on the organization’s requirements.

Once notarized, your Life Certificate becomes an official legal document that can be sent to the requesting body — whether that’s a foreign pension office, government agency, or bank.

What to Bring for Life Certificate Notarization

When you book an appointment to notarize your Life Certificate, please bring:

• A valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., passport, driver’s license)

• The certificate form provided by the organization requesting it

• Yourself — ready to sign the document in front of the notary

The Notary Public will verify your identity, confirm that you are alive, witness your signature, and notarize the document. This makes it legally acceptable to be submitted to the requesting authority.

Whether you're preparing for a pension verification or simply need official confirmation of life for an international matter, Dodo Notary is to guide you through it — stress-free and efficiently.