What is Legalization?
Legalization is the final step after authentication for documents going to non-Hague Convention countries. It is performed at the foreign embassy or consulate of the destination country in Canada.
How the Legalization Process Works
1.
Submit documents to NotaryZen for notarization.
2.
NotaryZen will Submit the document to the embassy/consulate of the destination country for legalization.
3.
The embassy stamps and certifies the document, making it legally recognized in that country.
4.
Your documents will be returned to you Notarized, Authenticated and legalized for international use.
When Do You Need Legalization?
If the document is going to a non-Hague Convention country, you need both authentication and legalization.
If the document is going to a non-Hague Convention country, it must go through:
✅ Notarization → ✅ Authentication → ✅ Legalization.
Comparison Table: Apostille vs. Authentication & Legalization
| Feature | Apostille (Hague Convention Countries) | Authentication & Legalization (Non-Hague Countries) |
|---|---|---|
| Notarization Required? | Sometimes | Sometimes |
| Government Authentication Needed? | Yes (Apostille replaces authentication) | Yes (Authentication step required) |
| Embassy/Consulate Legalization Needed? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Processing Time (Government) | 10-20 business days | 10-20 business days + embassy time |
| NotaryZen (Express) | 1-3 business days | 1-3 business days + embassy time |
| Authentication fee | Free (Notary included) | Free (not including notarization) |
| Legalization fee | Varies country by country basis (not including notarization) | Varies country by country basis (not including notarization & embassy fees) |
| NotaryZen (Express) | $200+HST | $225+HST + Embassy fees (vary) |
Legalization Services (For Non-Hague Convention Countries)
| Service | Standard & Premium Services |
|---|---|
| Standard Notarization (In-Person) | $49.99 -$75 (Notarization only) |
| Remote Online Notarization (RON) | $39.99 |
| Certified True Copy | $50 for 1st document $30 each additional document |
| Additional Notarized Signatures | $75 1st notary $49.99 each additional notarization |
| Legalization Package | $199.99 |
| Mobile Service | $60 – $150+ |
Additional Notes:
- Notary Public Cannot Provide Legal Advice – Notarization confirms identity but does not validate the legal content of documents.
- Expedited Services – 3rd party services are available for those who need their documents processed faster.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Process
- If the document is for a Hague Convention country → Get an Apostille.
- If the document is for a Non-Hague country → Get Authentication + Legalization.
- For express service → Use NotaryZen apostille service to expedite processing.