As of January 11, 2024, Canada has officially adopted the Hague Apostille Convention, simplifying the process of validating public documents for use in other countries. This means that documents originating in Quebec and intended for international use no longer require the traditional authentication and legalization process. Instead, the apostille system provides a streamlined method for certifying the authenticity of a document.
How to Obtain It in Quebec
To obtain an apostille in Quebec, the first step is to ensure your document qualifies as a public document under the convention. Examples include birth certificates, marriage certificates, court documents, and notarized documents. Once the document is prepared, you must submit it to an official designated by the Canadian government to issue apostilles. In Quebec, this service is provided by designated offices within the provincial government.
The apostille is a certificate attached to your document, confirming its authenticity for international use. This certification replaces the previous multi-step process involving the Ministère des Relations internationales et de la Francophonie (MRIF) and foreign embassies or consulates. With the apostille in place, your document is automatically recognized in all other Hague Convention member countries.
It’s essential to verify the specific requirements of the receiving country to ensure your document meets their standards. While the apostille simplifies international recognition, some countries may have additional stipulations. For complex situations, professional services specializing in document preparation and apostille services can assist in ensuring a smooth process.
Allen Madelin Avocats offers consultations and representation services in Quebec and abroad. For further information, please contact us by telephone: 1 514 904 4017 or by e-mail: [email protected].
