In all matters, care should be taken to establish trust. This is especially true in business. Many parties will be invested in the success of an enterprise, from managers, executives and stockholders, to employees and their families. The consequences of a missed opportunity can be expensive and disheartening. Whether you are representing a business as an attorney, or you are representing your own organization, there can be no doubts about the validity or authenticity of any transaction.
Document Authentication and Legalization
Document authentication is a key step in a shared legitimacy process called Authentication and Legalization. If the document was not issued by the local government, preparation will often involve having a notary witness an official signature. Once the document is eligible, the relevant office of the issuing nation will authenticate it. In Canada, this can be accomplished at the office of Global Affairs Canada.
Once authenticated, your document will move to the next step, called document legalization. Document legalization requires that a representative from the foreign mission attest to the authenticity of the domestic signatures. Because this process is such an involved one, many nations have moved to a simplified process called an apostille. For anyone doing business in Canada, the full authentication and legalization process must still be followed for every public document.
Document Authentication and Legalization For Corporate Documents
Much of running a business involves working with lenders and banks. These days, those partnerships are global ones. Having director’s certificates and certificates of good standing authorized is critical for international lending and for making sure your good reputation follows your business.
For employees acting in official capacity overseas, you’ll need authenticated credentials for many situations. If you have lawyers representing your global interests, you may need Powers of Attorney attestation.
Incorporation and formation documents can require authorization, as well as merger documents. If your business is expanding its operations, you’ll see real estate and leasing paperwork being tested internationally. Patent applications and trademark paperwork must work across borders.
Documents for tax and probate purposes, regulatory paperwork for agency requirement certifications, the list goes on.
Even just making copies for use internationally can require regular document authentication services. Often, duplicated documents need original signatures, and each time those documents are signed, the authenticity of that new document will need to be verified.
To avoid costly delays, every document must be correctly prepared and promptly processed. Many corporations place their trust in a reliable third party to guarantee success. Having a dedicated professional service oversee the authentication of your corporate documents can be a priceless asset.
Do I Need My Document Legalized?
Document legalization services are a core consideration of any international affair. Inside and outside of the corporate world, the chain of trust that document Authentication and Legalization creates is used extensively. If you’re unsure that your particular situation will call for legalization services, or need assistance in any area of the process, contact the Legalization Service Centre and we’ll help you through it.