How Long Is a Notarized Document Valid in Ontario?

Updated September 2026. There is no single Canada-wide expiry date that applies to every notarized document. A notarial act records what the notary certified at the time. It does not keep an underlying passport, licence, affidavit or other document current forever.

What can affect acceptance?

• The original document may expire, be replaced, amended or revoked.
• A receiving organization may require a recent certified copy or signature and set its own timeframe.
• Documents going abroad can require an apostille or other formalities in addition to an in-person notarization.

For example, a notarized copy of an identification document reflects the copy and original presented on that date; it does not extend the ID’s expiry. A document signed for a specific transaction may stop being useful when the transaction or authorization ends.

Before paying for a fresh notarization, ask the recipient what document version and date it will accept. If you need an apostille, check the issuing jurisdiction and Ontario’s document eligibility rules. A document that was only remotely commissioned cannot be apostilled.

Need a current notarized copy? View our in-person services or contact us with the recipient’s instructions.

Source: Ontario guidance for authenticating documents for use outside Canada.