Swearing an affidavit online in Alberta.

Who can commission an Alberta affidavit

Alberta draws a clearer line than some provinces between two roles. A commissioner for oaths can administer oaths and affirmations and take affidavits within Alberta. A notary public can do that and more, including certifying true copies and notarizing documents intended for use outside the province. Lawyers are both by virtue of their office.

The distinction matters when you know where your document is going. An affidavit for an Alberta agency may only need a commissioner for oaths, while a document heading to another province or country generally wants a notary public. Tell us the destination when you book and we will match you appropriately.

Remote commissioning in Alberta

Alberta permits the remote administration of oaths for a wide range of everyday documents, and affidavits sworn by video are routinely accepted by Alberta courts, agencies, and financial institutions. The commissioner administers the oath live, watches you sign, and completes the jurat noting that it was sworn by video conference.

The commissioner verifies who you are and that you understood the oath. They do not verify that your statements are true — the contents are your responsibility, and knowingly swearing a falsehood is a criminal offence.

Exhibits

Attachments referenced in the affidavit are exhibits, and each normally needs to be marked and initialled by the commissioner in the same appointment. Reference each in the body ("attached as Exhibit A"), and have them ready in order to show on camera. Each additional page or exhibit handled in the same session is $26, which is why bundling them into one appointment is much cheaper than booking again.

Alberta's geography

Remote commissioning removes the drive. From Calgary and Edmonton to Red Deer, Lethbridge, Fort McMurray, Grande Prairie, and the many smaller communities well away from a notary's office, the appointment is the same short video call. Evenings and weekends are available, which matters for shift workers and anyone on rotation.

Common reasons an Alberta affidavit is rejected

• Signed before the call. The commissioner has to witness the signature.
• Wrong official for the destination. Out-of-province use generally wants a notary public.
• Unmarked exhibits. Referenced but never shown and initialled.
• Name mismatch. Use your full legal name as it appears on your ID.
• Incomplete body. Fill in every date, amount, and name first.

See the general affidavit guide, the cost breakdown, or the Alberta page.