Documents we notarize online.

When you actually need a document notarized

Notarization exists to prevent fraud. A notary public verifies that you are who you say you are, that you are signing willingly, and that the signature on the page is genuinely yours. Because of that, notarization is usually requested by whoever will rely on the document later — a court, a government agency, a bank, a foreign consulate, or the other party to a contract. If a form tells you it must be "sworn," "affirmed," "notarized," or signed "before a notary or commissioner," that is your signal that a notary needs to be involved.

The most common reasons Canadians book an appointment are travel consent for a child, granting or revoking a power of attorney, swearing an affidavit for a legal proceeding, certifying a copy of a passport or diploma, and completing real estate or mortgage paperwork. Each of these carries real consequences if a signature is later disputed, which is exactly why the receiving institution wants a neutral witness on record.

Affidavits and statutory declarations

An affidavit is a written statement you swear is true, used as evidence in court or by a government body. A statutory declaration serves a similar purpose outside of court — confirming a fact such as identity, marital status, or a name change. In both cases the notary administers an oath or solemn affirmation before witnessing your signature, which is what gives the document its legal standing.

For a full walkthrough, see our guides on notarizing an affidavit online and notarizing a statutory declaration, including how exhibits are marked and what it costs.

Powers of attorney

A power of attorney lets someone you trust act on your behalf for financial, property, or personal-care matters. Because it grants significant authority, institutions almost always want it notarized so there is no doubt the document is authentic and that you signed it freely. We handle personal, financial, and real-estate powers of attorney, and can also notarize a revocation if you need to cancel one.

Powers of attorney carry the strictest formalities of any document we handle — read our guide to notarizing a power of attorney online for witness requirements by province, or see the cost breakdown.

Travel consent letters for minors

When a child travels internationally with only one parent, a guardian, or another adult, border officials frequently ask for a notarized consent letter from the non-accompanying parent. Notarizing it in advance helps avoid delays or questioning at the border. Tell us the destination country when you book, since a few destinations have additional requirements.

Our guide to notarizing a travel consent letter covers exactly what to include and who must sign, and the cost guide explains pricing when both parents sign. If you have sole custody, you may instead need a certified true copy of your custody order.

What you'll need for any document

Regardless of the document type, come prepared with a valid government-issued photo ID, the document in its unsigned state, and a quiet space for a short video call. If several people need to sign, everyone must be present and identified on the call. Not sure your document is eligible for remote notarization? Ask us before booking — confirming eligibility is free and takes only a moment.