General Notary Service Questions
Clear answers about documents, appointments, and notarization in Ontario.
What exactly does a notary public do in Ontario?
In Ontario, a notary public can perform certain formal acts, such as administering an oath, witnessing a signature, or certifying a copy. The exact service depends on the document and the notary's authority. Notarization confirms that a specified step took place; it does not, by itself, guarantee that an organization will accept the document or confirm that its contents are true.
When would I realistically need notarization for everyday situations?
You may be asked for a notarized signature, sworn statement, or certified copy for an immigration application, travel consent, school or employment file, property matter, or business record. Requirements vary by the organization receiving the document. Before booking, check exactly what it wants: for example, whether it needs an oath, a witnessed signature, a certified copy, or an additional authentication.
What's the difference between a notary public and a lawyer in Ontario?
A notary appointment is for a formal document-related act, such as witnessing a signature or administering an oath. Legal advice, document drafting, and representation are different services. Some lawyers are also notaries, but notarizing a document does not mean the notary has reviewed it for legal effect. If you need help deciding what to sign or how a document affects you, speak with a lawyer before the appointment.
Can a notary work remotely or do they need to meet me in person?
Appointments may be available in person at the office, at an agreed location, or online by video, depending on the document and the service required. Acceptance of online notarization varies by the organization receiving your document and sometimes by the document's destination. Check with that organization before booking; if it requires an in-person appointment or a particular process, let us know.
How do I know if my document actually needs to be notarized?
Follow the instructions from the person or organization requesting the document. Words such as "sworn," "commissioned," "witnessed," and "certified copy" can refer to different steps. If the instructions are unclear, ask the recipient what they require and whether they accept online notarization. That helps you book the right appointment and avoid having to repeat the process.
What identification do I need to bring for notarization?
For an in-person appointment, bring a current government-issued photo ID, such as a passport, driver's licence, or Ontario Photo Card. The name on your ID should match the name used in the document. Digital photos or screenshots of ID are not accepted for in-person appointments. Online appointments use a separate identity-check process; ask when booking if you are unsure what to have ready.
How long does a typical notarization appointment take?
Timing depends on the number of documents and the steps required. A straightforward appointment may be brief; several documents or an oath can take longer. When you contact us, tell us how many documents you have and what the receiving organization requested so we can allow appropriate time.
Is notarization the same as an apostille for international documents?
No. Notarization is an act performed by a notary, such as witnessing a signature or administering an oath. An apostille is a separate certificate used to authenticate certain public documents for use in another country. Whether you need either step, and whether more authentication is required, depends on the destination country's rules and the type of document. Confirm the requirements with the receiving authority before arranging the process.
Can a notary refuse to notarize a document?
Yes. An appointment may not proceed if identity cannot be verified, the signer does not appear to understand or freely agree to the act, the document is incomplete, or the requested service is outside the notary's authority. If there is a concern, we will explain what needs clarification. Bring the complete document and any instructions from the organization requesting it, but wait to sign until the appointment if the document requires a witnessed signature or oath.
Still Have Questions?
Have a question about your document or the appointment format? Contact us before booking so we can clarify what information to bring.
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