How much does it cost to notarize a document in Canada?

The process of notarization of a document in Canada becomes a must-have legal procedure for you if you are signing an affidavit, verifying an identity, or putting through an international application. However, before making a trip to a notary public, it is very crucial to be aware of the amount that you will be paying for notarization in Canada.

Notary fees differ from one province to another and based on the type of document being handled, also whether you opt for in-person or online notarization services. In this short reference, we will guide you through the process of discovering the average notarization fees in Canada, what the factors that influence the cost are, and how to pick the most comfortable and cost-effective notarization option according to your requirements. 

The typical costs associated with notarizing a document in Canada begins at approximately $15 for the first document and $10 for any additional documents. Service costs typically incorporate the notary public's time and signature verifications. This estimated fee will fluctuate based on the document type, the province, and the level of specialized service requested. 

In some instances, specialized notary service fees such as certified true copies, affidavit preparation, and international notarization can mean total fees will range from $200 to $1,400, especially for complex legal documents or documents consisting of multiple pages.

Regional Differences 

The cost of notarization does vary from province to province in Canada. For example, in Alberta, notaries are permitted to determine their own fee structure, while in British Columbia there are no government-regulated, set fees for notaries, leading to variable costs between firms. In Ontario and Quebec, the costs are more consistent as they adhere to standard rates, although special service fees can still lead to changes in costs. 

Extra Services and Costs

If you're requiring document drafting, document translation, authentication, or expedited notarization services, there are typically additional fees that are charged generally ranging from $10 to $100 per document. More Canadians are now opting for online services to provide flexibility and convenience; however, the pricing for online services is slightly higher as it requires the use of special digital verification tools and processing systems over traditional in-person appointments.

Average Notarization Costs in Canada

Several key factors determine the notarization cost in Canada. Understanding these can help you plan your budget and choose the right notary public service for your needs:

1. Location and Demand

• In major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, or Calgary, notary fees are generally higher due to high demand and limited availability.

• Smaller towns or rural areas often have more affordable notarization rates.

2. Type and Complexity of the Document

• Complex legal documents, multi-page contracts, or international certifications may require additional verification, increasing the overall cost.

3. Specialized or Bilingual Notary Services

• Documents that need translation, affidavit preparation, or assistance from a bilingual notary public typically cost more because of the added time and expertise involved.

4. Expedited or Same-Day Notarization

• If you require urgent notarization, expect to pay a higher fee for express or same-day processing. This covers the notary’s time and priority handling.

5. Online vs. In-Person Notarization

• Online notarization in Canada may cost slightly more due to digital ID verification, secure video conferencing, and electronic seals.

• However, many individuals find the extra cost worthwhile for the convenience and flexibility it offers.

Tip: Comparing these factors can help you find the best balance between affordability, convenience, and accuracy when choosing a notary public in Canada.

Before making the final decision, it’s essential to gather quotes from multiple notary publics in Canada. Notarization costs can vary significantly, and some companies may include hidden fees for services like document preparation, translation, or expedited processing. To avoid surprises, consider using reputable services like Globeia, which offer transparent pricing with no hidden charges.

Here’s how to get an accurate quote:

1. Compare Multiple Providers

• Reach out to several notary publics in Canada to understand their base fees, additional service charges, and processing times.

2.Check for Transparency

• Ensure the provider clearly lists all fees upfront. Companies like Globeia provide full pricing details, so you know exactly what you’re paying for.

3.Book an Appointment

• Schedule your notarization in advance, whether in-person or online. Many notaries require an appointment to verify your documents and identity.

4.Understand Your Requirements

• Identify the type of document you need notarized, any additional services required (translation, certified copies, etc.), and compare how each notary prices these services.

By following these steps, you can secure the most reliable and cost-effective notarization service in Canada without worrying about hidden fees or unexpected costs. 

Knowing notarization fees in Canada: Involves having a familiarity with the basic fees for notarizations and the variations in costs across Canada, additional pricing associated with services provided, and other factors that influence price. Conducting some initial research and comparing price quotes from multiple notary publics in Canada could be a great help in informing and avoiding surprise or unaccounted fees.

It is also important to make sure that your documents are formally notarized and legally verified by a certified notary public in Canada, so you can trust your documents are usable for all legal, business and international usability.

If you are looking for a clear, affordable and trustworthy service for notarizing your documents, we recommend Globeia where you can easily book your appointment online and pay for an up front price with no hidden fees including a professional notary public for your needs. 

Take action now: Book your notarization with Globeia today and ensure your documents are accurately and securely notarized in Canada.