As 2020 progresses into summer in Canada, the Covid-19 pandemic continues to restrict and limit life as we once knew it. While Ontario was hopeful that the number of cases were on the decline, a recent increase in the numbers shows us that we are still a distance away from finishing our battle with the virus. What is the future of document authentication and legalization?

What does this mean for business?

As of June 1^st, 2020, Ontario has extended the state of emergency for the province by another few weeks. Business will continue with the limitations that were imposed until June 19^th, 2020. Continuing social distancing protocols, most businesses will have their doors closed and may only operate remotely, if at all. This remains true of government offices as well, where functionality for most work is still ongoing. However, operations will continue remotely or with strict social distancing protocols in place. You can find up-to-date information regarding COVID-19, travel, and document authentication on Global Affair Canada’s website. For a full list of state-of-emergency orders and updates, visit here.

As you have likely experienced in the last few months, operations in the government and private sectors have been slow. This is due to a shortage of staff or coping with sudden remote functionality for employees in industries that used to operate mostly from offices. This is also true for activities surrounding authentication and legalization services. Services often require communication between government offices in different countries, which complicates the process. Your document authentication process with Global Affairs Canada may be delayed. There may also be problems in the document legalization step with the appropriate embassy in Ottawa. They may be coping with their own set of delays and restrictions with the countries that they represent!

Moving forward?

It is difficult to point to a date upon which life will resume as before. More likely, operations of businesses and government offices will change to create a post-virus norm. This may mean social distancing measures may never really go away. More and more offices and businesses may choose to continue remote functionality to some capacity. There may still be delays even if things go back to a new normal; it may be a while before things pick up pace. Even more likely is that there may be lags due to a backlog that happens during the state-of-emergency.

What to do?

During this time, it may be of best interest to you to have your document authentication and legalization needs completed by professionals such as Legalization Service Centre. Our hours of operation have not changed significantly and we can be reached conveniently via WhatsApp at +1-613-501-0555  or by telephone at 1-800-857-1215. Not only can we help you process your documents remotely, maintaining social distancing protocols, but our pre-existing networks within most embassies in Ottawa, as well as with Global Affairs Canada, allow us to have your documents processed as quickly as possible. We strive to exceed our clients’ requirements and over the years, our experience has not only allowed us to provide stellar customer satisfaction, but also earn an A+ status with the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

Only time will tell what the future has in store. For now, we hope you stay safe while maintaining social distancing protocols as per your province’s guidelines. Give us a call or send us a message for any of your document authentication and legalization service needs!

 

Image Source: Getty Images