Introduction: The Growing Demand for Online Notarization in Ontario
In today’s fast-paced digital world, people across Ontario are turning to online notarization for their legal document needs. Whether you’re an individual needing to swear an affidavit or a business requiring a statutory declaration, notarization online has become a go-to solution for convenience and speed.
But here’s the key thing to remember upfront:
Online notarization in Ontario is ONLY available for affidavits and declarations. It does not apply to in-person notary services like certified true copies, wills, or real estate documents.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about online notarization, how to notarize online, and what to expect when using a trusted onlinenotary service in Ontario.
What is Online Notarization?
Online notarization (sometimes called remote notarization or notarization online) allows a licensed Ontario notary public to commission certain legal documents over a secure video conference. Through this process, you don’t need to visit a physical office.
With the help of a reliable onlinenotary platform, you can notarize online from anywhere in Ontario, provided your document is eligible under provincial law.
Which Documents Can Be Notarized Online in Ontario?
Under Ontario’s current laws (as of 2025), online notarization is strictly limited to the following document types:
- Affidavits
- Statutory Declarations
These are documents where you swear or affirm the truth of a written statement, typically required by courts, government agencies, insurance companies, or educational institutions.
Documents You CANNOT Notarize Online in Ontario:
It’s important to clarify that online notarization is NOT available for the following document types:
- Certified true copies (e.g., passport copies, diploma copies)
- Wills
- Powers of Attorney
- Real estate transfer documents
- Consent to travel letters
- Notarial copies of ID
For these, you will still need to visit an in-person notary public office in Ontario.
Benefits of Choosing Online Notarization for Affidavits and Declarations
The rise in demand for notarization online services in Ontario is no surprise, given the many advantages. Here’s why individuals and businesses are choosing to notarize online:
1. Convenience
No more taking time off work or traveling across town. Online notarization allows you to connect with a licensed onlinenotary from anywhere in Ontario.
2. Speed
Many online notarization providers offer same-day appointments, and the entire process usually takes under 15 minutes.
3. Affordability
Compared to in-person notarization, many onlinenotary services offer affordable, flat-rate pricing with no hidden fees.
4. Legal Validity
Affidavits and declarations notarized online in Ontario are fully recognized and legally valid for use within the province.
How the Online Notarization Process Works in Ontario
Understanding how to notarize online is key to making the process smooth and stress-free. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of a typical online notarization appointment:
Step 1: Choose a Trusted Online Notary Service in Ontario
Look for a provider that specializes in online notarization of affidavits and declarations. Ensure the notary is licensed in Ontario and follows provincial guidelines.
Step 2: Book Your Appointment Online
Most onlinenotary services allow you to schedule your appointment directly on their website. Some offer instant bookings for urgent requests.
Step 3: Upload Your Document
Before your scheduled session, you’ll upload your affidavit or declaration. Some providers may offer downloadable templates if you don’t have a pre-drafted document.
Step 4: Identity Verification
During your video call, the notary will verify your identity by checking your government-issued photo ID. You may need to hold it up to the camera and provide a digital scan.
Step 5: Live Video Meeting
In the live session, the onlinenotary will:
- Confirm your identity
- Witness you signing the document
- Administer any required oaths or affirmations
- Apply their digital notarial seal
You must sign the document while on camera as the notary watches.
Step 6: Receive Your Commissioned Document
After the session, the online notarization platform will email you a finalized PDF copy of your affidavit or declaration, complete with the digital notary seal.
Online Notarization Fees in Ontario (2025)
Pricing for notarization online services in Ontario varies by provider and urgency of service.
Here’s a typical cost breakdown:
- Single Affidavit or Declaration: $25 to $50 CAD
- Rush / Same-Day Appointments: Additional $10 to $30 CAD
- Multiple Documents: Discounts may apply for bulk commissioning
When comparing providers, always ensure the onlinenotary fee is transparent, with no hidden costs.
Popular Use Cases for Online Notarization in Ontario
People across Ontario use online notarization for a variety of personal and business reasons. Here are the most common situations where clients choose to notarize online:
Individuals:
- Affidavits for small claims court
- Declarations for immigration purposes
- Affidavits of service for court proceedings
- Lost document affidavits
- Statutory declarations for government forms
Businesses:
- Affidavits for insurance claims
- Sworn statements for corporate legal filings
- Employee declaration forms
Whatever your need, if your document is an affidavit or declaration, online notarization is a fast, legal option in Ontario.
Things to Consider Before Booking Online Notarization
Before you book your online notarization, consider the following:
- Confirm Document Eligibility: Remember, only affidavits and declarations can be notarized online in Ontario.
- Verify Document Acceptance: Double-check that the organization requesting your document will accept a digitally commissioned affidavit.
- Check Your Internet Connection: A stable connection is necessary for your live video session.
- Have Valid ID Ready: Accepted forms include a driver’s license, passport, or Ontario photo ID.
Common Misconceptions About Online Notarization in Ontario
Misconception 1: “I can notarize anything online.”
Reality: Only affidavits and statutory declarations can be notarized online in Ontario. For certified true copies and other in-person services, you must visit a physical notary office.
Misconception 2: “Online notarization isn’t legally valid.”
Reality: Notarization online is fully legal in Ontario for affidavits and declarations, provided it’s done by a licensed onlinenotary following provincial guidelines.
Misconception 3: “I don’t need to appear on video.”
Reality: Ontario law requires a live, real-time video conference for all online notarization services. You cannot simply email your document for stamping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Notarization Online in Ontario
Can I get a certified true copy through online notarization?
No. Certified true copies require in-person notarization. Ontario law does not allow these services to be done online.
How long does the online notarization process take?
Typically, the entire process—from booking to receiving your document—takes less than 30 minutes.
Is my online-notarized affidavit accepted in court?
Yes. Courts in Ontario accept affidavits and declarations that are properly commissioned through online notarization.
What technology do I need for notarization online?
You’ll need:
- A device with a camera and microphone (laptop, tablet, or smartphone)
- A stable internet connection
- An email address to receive your finalized document
Can I notarize documents for use outside Ontario?
Check with the receiving institution. Some out-of-province or international bodies may not accept online notarization from Ontario.
Step-by-Step Example: How to Notarize Online for a Lost Document Affidavit
Let’s walk through an example of notarization online for a common document type: a lost document affidavit.
- Draft the affidavit or use a provided template.
- Book an appointment with a licensed onlinenotary.
- Upload the affidavit ahead of your appointment.
- Join the video call and present your ID.
- Swear your oath and sign the affidavit live on camera.
- Receive your digital copy, complete with the notary’s commissioner of oaths stamp.
You can then submit this online-notarized affidavit to your bank, government office, or insurance provider.
The Future of Online Notarization in Ontario
As digital transformation continues, the Ontario government may expand online notarization to include more document types. But for now (as of 2025), the onlinenotary option remains exclusive to affidavits and statutory declarations.
It’s likely that over the next few years, more businesses will adopt notarization online platforms to better serve Ontario residents.
Conclusion: Choose Online Notarization for Fast, Legal Affidavit and Declaration Commissioning in Ontario
If you need to notarize online for an affidavit or declaration, Ontario’s online notarization services are your fastest, most convenient, and legally valid option.
Skip the hassle of commuting to a notary office. A licensed onlinenotary can help you complete your document from anywhere in Ontario—all you need is your ID, your document, and an internet connection.
Just remember:
For certified true copies, wills, or powers of attorney, you still need in-person notarization.
Ready to book your online notarization? Get started today and experience the ease and efficiency of notarization online in Ontario.
