What is remote online notarization?
Remote online notarization, sometimes called virtual commissioning, lets a signer meet an authorized notary through a secure video appointment. The notary verifies identity, observes the signing or administers an oath when appropriate, completes the certificate, and returns the document in the agreed format.
Online does not mean automatic. The organization receiving your document decides whether it accepts a remote process, electronic signature, electronic seal, or a digitally delivered certificate.
Before booking an online notary
- Ask the recipient first: confirm that a remote notarization from Ontario is accepted and ask for any required wording.
- Check the document: make sure every page and schedule is present, with no unapproved blanks or missing attachments.
- Prepare identification: have valid government-issued photo ID ready for the identity check.
- Test your device: use a quiet, well-lit place with a stable internet connection, camera, and microphone.
- Include every signer: all required signers must be able to participate and understand the document.
When in-person notarization may be better
An office or mobile appointment may be the practical choice when the recipient requires an original wet-ink document, an in-person witness, a physical comparison with an original, or a specific paper seal. It can also be easier when several people must sign or when the document package is complex.
For an in-person option, see our affidavit service or certified copy service. For documents that qualify, review remote online notarization.
What can make an online appointment fail?
- The receiving organization does not accept remote notarization.
- The signer cannot present acceptable identification or the identity check cannot be completed.
- The video, audio, or internet connection is unreliable.
- The document requires an in-person witness, original, translation, or special signing sequence.
Confirming the recipient's requirements before booking is the best way to avoid paying for a process that will not be accepted.
Request an online notary appointment
Include the document type, destination country or organization, number of signers, and deadline in your request. Do not send confidential documents until you receive secure instructions.
Online notary questions
What do I need for online notarization?
You generally need a camera and microphone, stable internet, valid photo ID, the complete document, and confirmation that the recipient accepts remote notarization.
Is every document eligible?
No. Eligibility depends on the document, signing requirements, identity verification, and the recipient's rules.
Will a bank or government office accept it?
Ask the specific recipient before booking. They control which online certificate and signature formats they accept.