Top Online Notarization Services in Canada
You’ve just been told you need a document notarized, and your first thought will be where you can find a local notary, how to match their office hours, and similar headaches.
It turns out you can skip all that and get your legal documents legally and securely notarized in about 15 minutes without having to go out. Enter: online notarization services.
This guide is designed to be your straightforward resource for understanding how to get documents notarized online in Canada. We’ll explain the simple, legally-approved process, highlight some trusted Canadian online notaries, and answer the key questions you need to know.
What Exactly is Online Notarization? A Simple Breakdown
At its core, notarization serves two primary functions: verifying the identity of the person signing a document and confirming that they are signing it willingly and without being forced. The notary public acts as an impartial, government-appointed witness to this act.
Traditionally, this all happened in person. You would present your ID, the notary would watch you sign, and then they would affix their signature and physical seal or stamp to the document.
How Do Online Notarization Services Work? A Step-by-Step Guide
While each platform may have a slightly different interface, the core process for using online notarization services is remarkably consistent and straightforward.
- Upload Your Document: The first step is to get your document into the system. You will need a digital copy of the document you need notarized. This is usually a PDF file, but many services also accept Word documents or other formats. Use the form you previously completed, and simply upload the file directly to the platform’s secure website.
- Verify Your Identity: This is the most critical step for security. The platform needs to confirm you are who you say you are. This is typically done in two parts. First, you may answer a few security questions based on your personal history. Second, you will use your device’s camera to show your government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license or passport) to the notary and have a photo taken of yourself. This process is secure and designed to prevent fraud.
- Connect with a Live Notary: Once your identity is verified, you will be placed in a short queue to connect with one of the platform’s licensed Canadian online notaries via a live, two-way video call. You will be able to see and speak with the notary in real time, just as you would in person.
- Sign and Notarize: The notary will confirm your identity again on the call, ensure you understand the document you are signing, and witness you sign it. The platform will prompt you to apply your electronic signature to the document. Once you have signed, the notary will affix their official digital notary seal and signature. This digital seal is cryptographically secure and contains information that verifies the notary’s commission and the time and date of the notarization.
- Download Your Completed Document: Immediately after the session ends, your now-notarized document is available for download. You will receive a final, tamper-evident PDF that you can save, print, and share as needed.
The result is a fully legal, electronically notarized document that is tamper-proof and secure. The core legal principles are identical to the in-person process; only the medium has changed.
Is Online Notarization Legal and Accepted in Canada?
This is the most critical question, and the answer is a resounding yes.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, governments and law societies across Canada rapidly created and formalized rules to permit remote legal services. Today, virtually every Canadian province and territory allows licensed notaries public to perform their duties remotely. These Canadian online notaries are fully authorized to notarize documents using video conferencing technology.
However, there is one crucial rule you must always follow: Always check with the person or institution receiving your document to confirm they accept electronic notarizations.
While it is the legal standard, some older institutions or specific government bodies may still have internal policies that require a “wet-ink” signature. Before you spend time and money on any of the online notarization services, send a quick email or make a call to the recipient (the court, the bank, the embassy, etc.) and ask, “Do you accept digitally signed and notarized documents?” Getting this confirmation first will prevent any future headaches.
A Review of the Top Online Notarization Services in Canada
We’ve reviewed several platforms based on their ease of use, security, pricing, and the reputation of their Canadian online notaries. Here are some of the best options available.
Notary Pro
Notary Pro is one of Canada’s leading and most recognized online notarization services. They have built a strong reputation for speed, reliability, and wide acceptance across the country. Their platform is streamlined and user-friendly, making it an excellent choice for first-time users.
- How it Works: You upload your document, book an appointment (often available within minutes), and connect with a licensed Canadian notary via video call on your computer or smartphone. They guide you through the process of verifying your ID and signing the document electronically. Afterward, you immediately receive the notarized PDF via email.
- Coverage: Canada-wide; matches you with a notary commissioned in your province.
- Price (CAD): $45.95 first signature/seal; $30.95 each additional in the same session; bundles for passports/ID forms available.
- Availability/speed: Fast and same-day online appointments.
- Good to know: Online appointments include an embossed seal and an e-signature; pricing has recently moved from ~mid-30s to the current tier.
Notarize.ca
Notarize.ca is another major player in the Canadian market, known for its robust platform and excellent customer service. They offer a simple, three-step process: upload, connect, and download. They emphasize security and compliance with Canadian legal standards.
- Coverage: Serves clients across Canada; notaries prominently based in Ontario; online only or mailed hard copy on request.
- Price (CAD): $37.99 first notarization; $24.99 for each additional; student and senior discounts available.
- Hours: 7 am–11 pm ET, 7 days a week; most appointments take under 10 minutes.
- Extras: Can mail a printed copy with embossing; $20.99 first item, $4.99 for each additional, plus shipping/HST.
ClickNotary
ClickNotary focuses on speed and clarity. It offers Canada-wide access to licensed notaries, quick same-day appointments, and transparent pricing for single or multiple documents in one session. The secure e-signature workflow and detailed audit trail make it a practical, low-friction option for users who want online notarization services without surprises.
- Coverage: National platform; associates are registered notaries in their respective provinces.
- Price (CAD): $39 first document; $19 for each additional in the same session.
- Availability/speed: Same-day service; digital copy delivered after the session.
- Good to know: Uses secure e-signature with audit trails; video appointment via secure link.
Downtown Notary
Downtown Notary is an Ontario-based firm that powers Notarize.ca and brings a full-service approach to online notarization. In addition to virtual commissioning and notarization, the team can help with drafting, translations, wills and power of attorney workflows, and other admin tasks—useful if you need more than a simple stamp from Canadian online notaries.
- Coverage: Ontario-led firm with online service delivered through Notarize.ca; can assist Canada-wide online.
- Price (CAD): $37.99 first; $24.99 each additional (online).
- Extras: Broader legal admin add-ons (drafting help, translations, wills/POA workflows) beyond basic online notarization.
Canada Notary
Canada Notary combines virtual appointments with walk-in and mobile options across a national network, which is handy if you want both online convenience and the reassurance of local offices. Clear pricing, straightforward booking, and the option to receive a physical copy after your online session make it an accessible choice for everyday online notarization services.
- Coverage: Nationwide network; offers virtual, walk-in, and mobile notary/commissioner services.
- Price (CAD): Starts at $30 per document; discounts for multiple documents; some offices list e-transfer options and hard-copy mailing after e-sign.
- Availability: Walk-in hours vary by location; virtual sessions available via booking.
- Good to know: After online signing, you receive a notarized PDF and, if needed, a mailed hard copy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Online Notarization in Canada
What kind of documents can be notarized online?
Most documents that require a standard notarization can be handled online. This includes affidavits, statutory declarations, certified true copies of documents, travel consent letters for minors, letters of invitation for visas, and various business agreements. However, some documents, like Wills or Powers of Attorney, may have specific in-person witness requirements depending on the province. Always verify the specific requirements for these sensitive documents.
How do Canadian online notaries verify my identity?
Identity verification is a multi-step process. First, you will join a live, two-way video conference with the notary. They will ask you to present a valid, unexpired, government-issued photo ID (e.g., a driver’s license, passport, or permanent resident card) to your camera. The notary will carefully inspect the security features of the ID and compare the photo to you in real-time. Some online notarization services may also employ knowledge-based authentication, where you are asked a series of questions that only you would know the answer to, based on public records.
Is online notarization secure?
Yes, reputable online notarization services use bank-grade security and encryption to protect your data and the video session. The final notarized document is digitally sealed with a tamper-evident signature. This means if anyone tries to alter the document after it has been notarized, the digital seal will be broken, and the change will be apparent. In many ways, this is more secure than a traditional paper document.
How much do online notarization services in Canada typically cost?
The cost is generally competitive with in-person services, and often more affordable when you factor in time and travel costs. Prices typically start at around $25-$40 for the first notarized signature or document. Most services offer a discount for each additional document notarized within the same video session. Be sure to check the pricing model—some charge per signature, others per document.
Do I need any special software or equipment?
No special software is usually required. All you need is a computer, tablet, or smartphone with a working camera and microphone, a stable internet connection, and a modern web browser like Chrome, Firefox, or Safari. You will also need an electronic version of your document (usually in PDF format) and your physical government-issued photo ID ready to present.
How long does the online notarization process take?
The entire process is remarkably fast. From landing on the website to having your notarized document in your inbox, it can often be completed in under 15 minutes. The video call with the notary public itself typically lasts only about 5-7 minutes.
Will my online notarized document be accepted outside of Canada, like in the US?
Generally, yes. The principle of notarization is internationally recognized. An online notarization performed by a licensed Canadian notary is a valid legal act. However, just as you would when submitting a document within Canada, you must always confirm with the receiving party in the U.S. (or any other country) that they will accept a document notarized electronically by a Canadian notary.
What’s the difference between a Notary Public and a Commissioner for Oaths in Canada?
This is an important distinction. A Commissioner for Oaths is authorized only to take oaths and receive affidavits and statutory declarations. A Notary Public can do everything a Commissioner can do, but they also have the authority to verify the authenticity of documents (i.e., make certified true copies) and verify signatures on other important documents. Most Canadian online notaries you will encounter on these platforms are fully licensed Notaries Public.
Can I get a document notarized online if I am a Canadian citizen living abroad?
Absolutely. This is one of the greatest benefits of online notarization services. As long as the document is intended for use in Canada, you can connect with a licensed Canadian notary from anywhere in the world. They will verify your identity using your Canadian passport or other valid ID and notarize your document.
What happens if the person receiving my document doesn’t accept the electronic notarization?
This is why confirming acceptance beforehand is so crucial. If you’ve already had the document notarized and the recipient rejects it, your first step should be to respectfully explain that remote notarization is legally valid in the relevant Canadian province. You can even offer to provide information on the governing law or the law society directive. If they still insist on a wet-ink signature, unfortunately, you will have to find a traditional notary public. Most online notarization services do not offer refunds in this situation, as they have performed their service correctly.
