Apostille in Canada – What It Is and How It Works
                       
Apostille in Canada – What It Is and
How It Works
 
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Apostille Process in Canada
Since Canada is not a member of the Hague Apostille 
Convention, the Apostille process as recognized by the 
convention does not apply. Instead, Canada follows a different 
process known as document authentication and legalization. 
This process involves two main steps: authentication and 
legalization.
1. Authentication
Authentication is the first step in the process, where a 
designated Canadian authority verifies the authenticity of the 
signature, seal, or stamp on the document. In Canada, this is 
typically done by Global Affairs Canada (GAC) or a provincial 
or territorial government office.
Steps for Authentication:
 Prepare Your Documents: Ensure that your documents 
are original or certified true copies and have been notarized if 
required.
 Submit to the Appropriate Authority: Send your 
documents to Global Affairs Canada or the appropriate 
provincial or territorial office for authentication. Some offices 
may allow mail-in submissions, while others may require in-
person submission.
 Pay the Fee: Pay the necessary authentication fees, 
which can vary depending on the document type and the 
processing time.
2. Legalization
Legalization is the second step, where the authenticated 
document is further verified by the embassy or consulate of the 
country where the document will be used. This step ensures 
that the document will be recognized as valid in the foreign 
country.
Steps for Legalization:
 Prepare for Submission: Once your document is 
authenticated, prepare it for submission to the relevant 
embassy or consulate.
 Submit to the Embassy/Consulate: Submit the 
authenticated document to the embassy or consulate of the 
country where it will be used. This may involve additional 
forms, fees, and processing times.
 Collect or Receive Your Document: Once the 
legalization process is complete, collect your document or have
it mailed back to you, depending on the embassy or consulate's
procedures.
How Apostille Works
The document authentication and legalization process in 
Canada is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail
to ensure all steps are completed correctly. Here’s a summary 
of how it works:
 Identify the Required Documents: Determine which 
documents need to be authenticated and legalized for use in 
the foreign country.
 Authenticate the Documents: Submit your documents to
Global Affairs Canada or the appropriate provincial/territorial 
authority for authentication.
 Legalize the Documents: Once authenticated, submit 
your documents to the relevant embassy or consulate for 
legalization.
 Use the Documents Abroad: Once both steps are 
complete, your documents are ready for use in the foreign 
country.
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