Notarizing vs. Affirming Documents in Ontario: What You Need to Know

Notarize vs Affirm a Document in Ontario

If you’ve been asked to have a document notarized or affirmed in Ontario, it’s important to understand the difference. While both services are offered by a Notary Public or Commissioner of Oaths, they serve different purposes and are used in different legal or official contexts.

Understanding this distinction ensures your documents are processed correctly by courts, government agencies, or international authorities.

What Does It Mean to Notarize a Document?

When a document is notarized, a Notary Public:

• Verifies your identity

• Witnesses your signature

• Certifies a copy of an original document as a “true copy”

Common documents requiring notarization include:

• Certified true copies of passports or IDs

• Travel consent letters for minors

• Contracts, legal forms, or international documents

Key takeaway: Notarization confirms the authenticity of a document or signature.

What Does It Mean to Affirm a Document?

Affirming (or commissioning) a document is different. In this process, the notary or commissioner of oaths asks you to swear an oath or make a solemn affirmation that the contents of your document are true.

Common documents requiring affirmation include:

• Affidavits

• Statutory declarations

• Sworn statements for court, immigration, or government use

Key takeaway: Affirming confirms the truth of your statement, not the document itself.

Key Difference Between Notarizing and Affirming in Ontario

Service	Purpose	Examples
Notarizing	Authenticates documents and signatures	Certified true copies, contracts, consent letters
Affirming	Confirms sworn or affirmed statements	Affidavits, statutory declarations, court statements

Which Service Do You Need?

If you’re unsure whether your document requires notarization or affirmation, check the instructions from the court, government office, or requesting organization. A licensed Ontario notary can provide guidance and ensure your documents are accepted.

Whether you need a certified copy of a document or an affidavit sworn in front of a notary, knowing the difference between notarizing and affirming will save you time and stress.

Why Choose Snap Notary?

Snap Notary provides professional, fast, and affordable notary services across Ottawa, Kanata, and Barrhaven, including:

• In-office notarization and affirmation

• Mobile notary services for homes, offices, hospitals, or care homes

• Evening and weekend appointments

All notarizations and affirmations comply with Ontario law and are recognized by courts, government agencies, and financial institutions.