Notices and updates - Authentication of documents
2025
Launch of the authentication of documents online triage portal
October 30, 2025
The Authentication Services Section launched a new online triage portal that allows users to submit authentication request forms electronically.
The portal verifies that your document meets Global Affairs Canada’s requirements and is eligible for authentication. It will also allow you to track the status of your request online. While physical documents must still be sent by mail, this new tool streamlines the process and improves the overall user experience.
To access the tool, visit the authentication of documents triage portal.
Launch of a tool to verify apostilles online
June 20, 2025
The Authentication Services Section launched a tool that allows the online verification of the validity of apostilles issued by Global Affairs Canada and the provinces of Alberta, Saskatchewan and British Columbia.
This new tool greatly facilitates the real-time verification of the validity of apostilles issued by Canadian competent authorities, thus enhancing their security, reducing the risk of fraud, and streamlining the acceptance of Canadian documents abroad.
To access the tool, visit Verify an apostille.
2024
New mailing address and drop-off location
August 15, 2024
Please note that the drop-off location and the mailing address to submit requests to the Authentication Services Section have changed effective immediately. The new address can be found under 4. Send your documents. Any request sent by mail or courier to the previous mailing address (125 Sussex Drive, Ottawa) will automatically be forwarded to the new location.
The Apostille Convention took effect in Canada
The entry into force of the Apostille Convention in Canada on January 11, 2024, simplifies the acceptance of Canadian public documents in the more than 120 countries that have signed the convention.
Learn more about Canada’s accession to the Apostille Convention on May 16, 2023.
2023
Simplified translation policy for proof of life documents drafted in a foreign language
June 14, 2023
The translation policy for proof of life documents (also known as life certificates) drafted in a foreign language has been simplified. Under the new policy, it is no longer necessary to translate proof of life certificates written in a foreign language provided that the text does not exceed half a page. For more details, please see the Exceptions section under Get your documents translated.
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