Canada Joins the Hague Convention

Canada is now a part of the Hague Convention

Great news! Canada has now joined the vast number of countries being part of Hague convention and is now accepting Apostille Legalisation.

That's right! Canada officially joined the Hague Convention on January 11, 2024, marking a significant step forward in simplifying how Canadians can use their public documents abroad. This is particularly relevant considering Canada's close ties with many other member countries.

But it also means that overseas documents issued in a foreign country that has been legalized by Apostille, under the Hague Convention, will no longer be require additional certification via Canadian Embassy or a Consulate to be accepted in Canada.

Here's a quick breakdown of what this means in practical terms.

Easier document legalization: Previously, getting Canadian documents like birth certificates, marriage certificates, and educational credentials legalized for use in other countries involved a complex and time-consuming process called consular legalization. Now, with Canada's accession to the Hague Convention, a simpler and faster procedure called apostille will be used.

Reduced costs: Apostille is generally a more cost-effective option compared to consular legalization.

Wider acceptance: Documents apostilled in Canada will be recognized and accepted in all 124 countries that are party to the Hague Convention, opening up more opportunities for Canadians to study, work, or do business abroad.

Streamlined process: The apostille process is typically quicker and less bureaucratic than consular legalization. In Canada, apostilles will be issued by designated provincial or territorial authorities.

Overall, Canada's accession to the Hague Convention is a positive development that will benefit Canadians living, working, or studying abroad. It will make it easier, faster, and cheaper for them to get their documents legalized, opening up new opportunities and streamlining international interactions.