If you need to send documents from Canada to Saudi Arabia—like a diploma, birth certificate, or business papers—they must be officially verified. This process is called authentication or legalization. As of January 11, 2024, Canada and Saudi Arabia are part of the Hague Apostille Convention. That means some documents can now be stamped with an apostille instead of going through the full embassy process, making things quicker and easier.
However, not every document qualifies for an apostille, and some still need approval by the Saudi Embassy in Ottawa. If you skip a step or send the wrong version, your paperwork could be delayed or rejected. Keep reading to learn which process you need and how to get it right the first time.
If you need assistance, we are available to provide support for apostille processing in Canada. Our team is dedicated to the authentication of documents for international use in accordance with the Apostille Convention. See our page on Apostille Canada for additional information.
Need help with document apostille/legalization/authentication/attestation — and/or criminal record check in Canada? Contact us via our form, call us at +1-613-501-0555 (WhatsApp available) or +1-800-857-1215 (toll-free), fax us via 1-844-786-2001, or text us at [email protected].
Apostille vs. Legalization: What’s the Difference?
When you need to send official documents from Canada to Saudi Arabia, you’ll either need an apostille or legalization. These are two different ways to prove your documents are authentic. Which one you need depends on the type of document and whether both countries are part of the Hague Apostille Convention.
Since January 11, 2024, Canada and Saudi Arabia are both part of this agreement. This means many Canadian documents can now get an apostille, a special stamp that makes the document valid in Saudi Arabia, without needing to go to the embassy or consulate. You can get an apostille from Global Affairs Canada or a provincial authority, depending on where your document was issued.
However, while most public documents now qualify for an apostille, some types of documents—such as certain commercial documents, veterinary records, or other materials not classified as public under the Hague Convention—may still require additional steps. In these cases, your document must first be authenticated in Canada and then submitted to the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Ottawa for final approval. This typically applies only when the document is not eligible for an apostille or if a specific Saudi authority requests embassy legalization despite the Hague Convention.
Step-by-Step: Getting a Canadian Apostille
Before You Start
To be accepted for an apostille or authentication, your document must include the original signature of the person who issued it and the official seal or stamp of the institution or organization. This helps confirm that the document is authentic and has not been changed or copied.
If the document is created between private individuals or companies—such as a power of attorney, contract, or letter of consent—it must first be notarized by a Canadian notary public. Notarization proves that the signature is valid and that the person signing the document did so willingly and knowingly. Without proper notarization and a visible seal or stamp, the document will not be accepted by Canadian authorities for apostille or by the Saudi Embassy for authentication.
Where to Send Your Document
To get an apostille for a Canadian document, you must send it to the correct authority based on where it was issued or notarized. Here’s how to know where to send it:
Send your document to Global Affairs Canada if it is:
- A federal document (such as a passport record, immigration letter, or RCMP check)
- Issued in one of the following provinces or territories:
- Newfoundland and Labrador (NL)
- Nova Scotia (NS)
- New Brunswick (NB)
- Manitoba (MB)
- Prince Edward Island (PEI)
- Yukon (YT)
- Northwest Territories (NT)
- Nunavut (NU)
Send your document to the appropriate provincial authentication authority if it was notarized or issued in:
- Ontario (ON)
- Alberta (AB)
- British Columbia (BC)
- Quebec (QC)
- Saskatchewan (SK)
Using the correct authority is required for your document to be properly apostilled and legally recognized in Saudi Arabia or any other country that is part of the Hague Apostille Convention.
Processing Times
Processing times for apostille services in Canada usually range from 5 to 10 business days after the correct authority receives the document—either Global Affairs Canada or a provincial authentication office. This does not include mailing time. Delays may arise during busy times or if documents that are not fully completed are sent to the incorrect office. Checking the specific office’s website is crucial for obtaining the most accurate and current processing timelines.
What Services Does the Saudi Arabian Embassy in Canada Offer?
Consular Services for Saudi Citizens in Canada
The Saudi Arabian Embassy in Ottawa provides consular services for both Saudi Arabian nationals in Canada and Canadians travelling to Saudi Arabia. Saudi citizens can visit the embassy for services such as renewing or replacing passports, registering births or deaths, legal document support, and assistance with educational matters, especially for students studying in Canada. The embassy also provides help in legal or immigration-related situations.
Available Services for Canadians Travelling to Saudi Arabia
For Canadians, the embassy handles visa applications for travel to Saudi Arabia. This includes visas for tourist, business, work, and family visits. They also give you official information about Saudi Arabia’s entry procedures, customs rules, and travel warnings. Before arranging a trip, Canadians need to check the most up-to-date Saudi Arabia visa restrictions.
Emergency Consular Assistance at the Embassy
The Saudi Arabia Embassy in Canada provides emergency consular services in urgent situations—mainly for Saudi citizens. This includes help with lost passports, health emergencies, legal issues, or other critical matters. Outside regular working hours, emergency support is available through a special phone number published on the embassy’s official website. It’s important to note that while the embassy assists Saudi nationals, Canadians needing emergency help abroad should contact Canadian consular services directly.
Travel Requirements for Canadians Visiting Saudi Arabia
Health and Safety Guidelines for Travel to Saudi Arabia
Canadians travelling to Saudi Arabia should follow the health and safety guidelines provided by the Saudi Ministry of Health and Health Canada. Vaccinations may be required, especially for travellers attending Hajj or Umrah. Common vaccine requirements include meningococcal meningitis, seasonal flu, and sometimes COVID-19. Travellers are also advised to stay updated on travel advisories and carry medical insurance covering treatment in Saudi Arabia.
Documents Required for Hajj and Umrah
Special documentation is required for those going to Saudi Arabia for Hajj or Umrah. This includes a valid Canadian passport, an appropriate Hajj or Umrah visa, proof of vaccinations, and, in some cases, proof of hotel and travel bookings. All documents must be in order before departure, and visas for religious travel must be applied for through approved travel agencies or the Saudi Visa Bio App, depending on the most current regulations.
How Does the Saudi Embassy Facilitate Diplomatic Relations?
Role of the Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Ottawa, Canada
The Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Canada, located in Ottawa, serves as the official link between the Government of Saudi Arabia and the Government of Canada. Its primary role is to represent Saudi interests in Canada, provide assistance to Saudi citizens, and oversee consular matters such as passport renewals, document legalization, and support for visa-related processes.
Collaboration Between Canada and Saudi Arabia
The embassy also plays a key role in maintaining and strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries. This includes cooperation in areas such as education, trade, investment, and cultural exchange. It works closely with Canadian government agencies and institutions to support Saudi students, professionals, and business initiatives in Canada.
Diplomatic Services Offered by the Embassy
Through its diplomatic services, the embassy facilitates communication between Saudi and Canadian officials, coordinates high-level visits, and ensures that Saudi policies and interests are understood and respected. It also helps manage issues related to international law, consular agreements, and diplomatic protection.
Countries Party to the Apostille Convention
With more than 120 countries from all continents, the Hague Apostille Convention is today recognized for its global significance in simplifying international business, travel, education, and legal matters. This comprehensive list of states that have signed the Apostille Convention facilitates effective document authentication and mutual recognition.
- Albania
- Andorra
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Argentina
- Armenia
- Australia
- Austria
- Azerbaijan
- Bahamas
- Bahrain
- Barbados
- Belarus
- Belgium
- Belize
- Bolivia
- Bosnia Herzegovina
- Botswana
- Brazil
- Brunei Darussalam
- Bulgaria
- Burundi
- Cabo Verde
- Canada
- Chile
- China
- Colombia
- Cook Islands
- Costa Rica
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Dominica
- Dominican Republic
- Ecuador
- El Salvador
- Estonia
- Eswatini
- Fiji
- Finland
- France
- Georgia
- Germany
- Greece
- Grenada
- Guatemala
- Guyana
- Honduras
- Hong Kong
- Hungary
- Iceland
- India
- Indonesia
- Ireland
- Israel
- Italy
- Jamaica
- Japan
- Kazakhstan
- Kosovo
- Kyrgyzstan
- Latvia
- Lesotho
- Liberia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Macau
- Malawi
- Malta
- Marshall Islands
- Mauritius
- Mexico
- Moldova
- Monaco
- Mongolia
- Montenegro
- Morocco
- Namibia
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Nicaragua
- Niue
- North Macedonia
- Norway
- Oman
- Pakistan
- Palau
- Panama
- Paraguay
- Peru
- Philippines
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Russian Federation
- Saint Kitts and Nevis
- Saint Lucia
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Samoa
- San Marino
- São Tomé and Príncipe
- Saudi Arabia
- Serbia
- Seychelles
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- South Africa
- South Korea (Republic of Korea)
- Spain
- Suriname
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Tajikistan
- Tonga
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Tunisia
- Turkey
- Ukraine
- United Kingdom
- United States of America
- Uruguay
- Uzbekistan
- Vanuatu
- Venezuela
Traditional legalization becomes vital for countries not participating in the Hague Apostille Convention. Global Affairs Canada must authenticate the document before it can be used. The foreign embassy or consulate later validates the document.
Countries that are not signatories will not accept Canadian documents unless they are authenticated, legalized, or attested, which takes longer than the apostille process for signatory nations.
If you need assistance, we are available to provide support for apostille processing in Canada. Our team is dedicated to the authentication of documents for international use in accordance with the Apostille Convention. See our page on Apostille Canada for additional information.
Are You Looking to Get an Apostille For a Canadian Document for Use Outside Canada? Legalization Service Centre Has You Covered!
The Legalization Service Centre supports at every stage of the process for those seeking apostille, authentications, and attestation services for documents in Canada. We optimize the process to guarantee the accurate authentication of your documents for international purposes.
Need help with document apostille/legalization/authentication/attestation — and/or criminal record check in Canada? Contact us via our form, call us at +1-613-501-0555 (WhatsApp available) or +1-800-857-1215 (toll-free), fax us via 1-844-786-2001, or text us at [email protected].