Notarization
To notarize a document means to certify, attest to, or confirm the validity of a signature on a specific document. We have experience with notarizing many different types of documents and can make the process as painless and efficient as possible.
Common Documents We Can Notarize
- Affidavit
- Declaration Forms
- Certified True Copies
Affidavits & Declarations
We have provided samples of our most commonly used affidavits so you can get an idea of layout and content. Keep in mind that you should confirm requirements with the person/entity for whom you are swearing the affidavit. When you are swearing an affidavit, the name on the affidavit should be identical to that on the identification you are presenting to the Notary.
Common Types of Affidavits
Authentication / Certificate of Identity / Legalization
Any of the above terms can be used to describe the process of validating documents for use in a foreign jurisdiction. The Notary will prepare a Certificate of Identity, also known as a Form 10, (view sample) , attach any required documents such as an affidavit, criminal record check, or identification documents, and send the package to the Society of Notaries. The Society of Notaries will authenticate the Notary’s signature. Subsequently, documents are forwarded to the Consulate of the relevant foreign country for certification. In some cases the documents may also need to go to the Department of Foreign Affairs in Ottawa or the Office of the Deputy Attorney General.
Fees vary depending on the process required, and each client’s situation is different. Each level of certification has a fee, and there is no standard fee charged by Consulates. Our office will require a retainer in advance to cover fees charged by the Society of Notaries, the appropriate Consulate, and the costs of shipping documents via courier. This process can be time-consuming. In some cases, we have waited up to 8 weeks for the return of the finalized documents. Please allow a minimum of 4 weeks to complete the legalization process.
Fees vary depending on the process required, and each client’s situation is different. Each level of certification has a fee, and there is no standard fee charged by Consulates. Our office will require a retainer in advance to cover fees charged by the Society of Notaries, the appropriate Consulate, and the costs of shipping documents via courier. This process can be time-consuming. In some cases, we have waited up to 8 weeks for the return of the finalized documents. Please allow a minimum of 4 weeks to complete the legalization process.