Authentication and Legalization of Documents in BC (Apostille Services)
Doing life or business “between countries” can become a complicated, frustrating process. We are one of the few Notaries with extensive experience navigating the systems of multiple countries and consulates. Let us save you time and money with a simpler, more effective approach to jumping through bureaucratic hoops.
What is Authentication & Legalization?
authentication
Is when a Notary attests documents for use in a foreign jurisdiction; the signature and office of the Notary must be authenticated before the document will be accepted. The Secretary of the Society of Notaries Public of British Columbia authenticates the genuineness of the Notary’s signature and office in a prescribed manner. This is the first of the two-step process of Authentication and Legalization of a document.
legalization
Happens when the duly authenticated document is finally presented to the Consulate of the relevant jurisdiction for certification – confirmation that the correct procedure was followed in our province and/or country. Only then will the document be ready and valid for use in that jurisdiction.
Apostille vs. Authentication & Legalization what is the difference?
Documents notarized by notaries in Canada for use in other countries must go through an “authentication” and “legalization” process. This process of authentication is the Canadian equivalent of the “apostille certificates” process used in countries that are signatories to The Hague Convention Abolishing the Requirement of Legalization for Foreign Public Documents (1961). As Canada did not sign this convention, notaries in Canada cannot provide “apostille certificates”.
The authentication and legalization process in Canada, is the equivalent to ‘Apostille’ in other countries, and must be followed in order for a document to be accepted as the equivalent to an Apostille.
Notarizations
Identification documentation
Certified true copies of original documents
Commercial documents
Corporate documentation
Birth Certificates for legal weddings in foreign jurisdictions
Death Certificates for Probate in foreign jurisdictions
Diplomas, degrees, and academic transcripts
Powers of Attorney
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We are upfront with our fees, so you don’t have to face additional and unexpected charges on completion. We want you to enjoy peace of mind when it comes to the fees associated with your real estate transaction.
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Why Choose Zancope Notary Public?
Real estate transactions can be exciting and also stressful. At Zancope Notary Public, we want to make this process as smooth as possible. Our office is professional and relaxed. And Flavia deals with everyone personally, keeping you up to date through regular communications.