What is Document Legalization?

Otherwise known as the attestation of documents, legalization is a process involving the official validation of Canadian documents for use in foreign countries. This process is normally performed by the Embassies and Consulates of the destination countries. For instance, should you need to authorize someone in UAE to take care of property there on your behalf, the power of attorney must be legalized by the UAE embassy in Canada. Without this crucial step, they have no legal power in the UAE. Such circumstances apply to all Canadian documents to be used in any foreign countries.

Important Information on Document Authentication

Before the legalization process at foreign Embassies and Consulates in Canada can begin, the documents must be properly authenticated by a recognized government agency. However, there are some restrictions and requirements to bear in mind, and they’ll vary by destination country. Please contact our office to verify if your document is acceptable for the document authentication and legalization process in Canada.

How We Can Help

The document legalization process can be confusing as there are many requirements set by foreign governments. For example, should you need your Canadian post-secondary degree legalized for use in Qatar, you will have to also legalize the official transcripts and graduation confirmation letter from the institution from which you completed your studies. Moreover, the institution must send the official transcripts and true copy certificate form directly to the Qatari Embassy in Ottawa in order for them to successfully legalize your documents.

With all of this in mind, the legalization of documents at foreign Embassies and Consulates in Canada is not a necessarily straightforward process. It’s best if you get in touch with us for knowledgeable assistance and guidance if you feel stuck or overwhelmed. We’re happy to help!

We Can Help Legalize

Birth, Marriage and Death Certificates

Divorce Certificates

Change of Name Certificates

Non Impediment to Marriage Certificates

Powers of Attorney

Statement In-lieu of Certificate of Non-impediment to Marriage Abroad

Criminal Record Check Certificates

Fingerprints

Citizenship and Immigration Canada documents

Canada Revenue Agency Documents

Corporate Documents

Commercial Invoices

Certificates of Origin

Certificates of Pharmaceutical Product (CPP)

Medical Reports and Passport Photocopies

Canadian Document Legalization Steps

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PREPARE THE DOCUMENTS FOR LEGALIZATION PROCESS. IF YOU ARE NOT SURE ABOUT WHERE TO START WITH, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AND OUR EXPERTS WILL HELP YOU WITH PREPARATION OF YOUR DOCUMENTS.

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SEND THE DOCUMENTS TO OUR OFFICE: LSC, 440 LAURIER AVE., SUITE 218, OTTAWA, ON, K1R7X6.

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RECEIVE THE AUTHENTICATED AND LEGALIZED DOCUMENTS BACK FROM US.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why can’t I just get a document Apostilled instead?

Authentication and legalization, two unique and separate steps, are required for Canadian documents due to the fact that Canada is not a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, which was first signed by many other countries in 1961. Therefore, there is no Canadian Apostille, at least not in an official capacity.

Will the lack of an Apostille option cause trouble for me?

No. There are perfectly legal and authorized workarounds to the Hague Apostille Convention and Canada’s lack of a signor status. The process is more or less the same: Authentication of documents through appropriate governmental organizations followed by legalization through the Consulate or Embassy of the destination country.

Does the Legalization Service Centre work with Global Affairs on my behalf?

Yes, there’s no need to worry about that! One of our highly experienced and knowledgeable agents can appear in person on your behalf at Global Affairs Canada. What’s more, not only can they appear for the initial authentication process but also at the Embassy or Consulate of the destination country for the legalization process. We also actively monitor the progress of your document validation to ensure timely completion.

So, attestation and legalization mean the same thing?

That’s right! These are merely two different ways to describe the same standardized process, so you have nothing to worry about. Attestation is a term that you might hear in Middle Eastern and South Asian countries, but it’s the same thing so don’t let it confuse you.

Why should I choose the Legalization Service Centre?

Your documents deserve the informed, knowledgeable attention of a trained professional. There is no room or time for error when it comes to getting such important things legalized for use in other countries. To avoid trouble overseas and streamline your travels with peace of mind, trust in our team to handle your documents with care and attentiveness. We’ll follow their status the whole way and ensure everything is filled out properly. Feel free to reach out to our team today to learn more about our standards of excellence, rush service, and more.

Get a Customized Quote Today!

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Swift Document Authentication

Our Express Authentication Service guarantees speedy processing, and delivery your documents.

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Simplified Process

We simplify the journey by providing you with a comprehensive checklist to prepare your documents. Once you’re ready, simply ship them to us, and we’ll handle the rest.

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Competitive Pricing

Discover our great prices for top-quality document authentication services.

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1-800-857-1215

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