Authentication of documents
You may need to authenticate a Canadian document or get an apostille to use it abroad.
Authenticate your documents
- Confirm the requirements for your document
- Submit your authentication request
Requirements for authentication of documents
To be authenticated, your document must:
- have an original, recognized signature (and seal, if applicable)
- be in paper format
- be sent to the correct competent authority for authentication
- Some provinces are responsible for issuing apostilles for documents issued in their jurisdiction
- Find out where to send your document and submit your request
Processing time
Currently processing requests received
25 business days ago
Please add mailing time (normally 5-10 business days if shipped from Canada)
How we calculate this processing time
The processing time is based on how long it took to process 90% of applications recently.
Please note that the processing time may fluctuate depending on work volume and operational factors.
We do not offer expedited services. Please send your request as early as possible and be aware of the timelines that apply to your case.
If you have exceptional and urgent circumstances outside of your control that makes it impossible to wait for regular processing, you can contact us to request priority processing. Please note that we cannot consider a request for emergency processing if you have other options available, as listed in Alternatives to authentication.
You do not need to hire a third-party company to submit your request to Global Affairs Canada. Please note that processing times are the same whether you submit your request to our department directly or via a third-party service provider.
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