Updates to the authentication services
Global Affairs Canada is taking additional measure to expedite processing time
June 1, 2024
The Authentication Services section at Global Affairs Canada is putting in place additional measures to expedite the processing time of requests. That said, following the changes that came into effect on January 11, 2024, you should confirm that Global Affairs Canada remains the right authentication authority for your document. As well, you may also wish to explore our Alternatives to authentication page to find out if other options are available to you.
If you have exceptional and urgent circumstances (generally defined as a situation outside of your control that makes it impossible to wait the regular processing time) and want us to consider processing your document in priority, you may contact us.
Note that we are unable to consider a request for emergency processing if your document now qualifies for authentication by a provincial competent authority or if one of the options listed on our Alternatives to authentication page.
Seeking volunteers to test the Authentication Service section’s new online system
June 1, 2024
The Authentication Service section is planning to launch an online system that is expected to greatly enhance the user experience. It will allow users to get a preliminary response about the eligibility of their document for authentication and create a request online, check its status, and verify the validity of an issued apostille, among other benefits. If you are interested in participating in online guided user test sessions, people email us at elecdocs@international.gc.ca. and indicate in the subject line, “User testing sessions sign-up”.
The Apostille Convention took effect in Canada
January 11, 2024
Visit the Changes to authentications services in Canada for information on changes to authentication services in Canada.
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.
