Affordable Markham Notary Public

10/09/2026

OCTOBER 12, 2026 Hours: 9:30AM - 5:30PM

10/08/2026

https://www.affordablemarkhamnotary.com/post/online-notarization-in-ontario-what-can-be-done-online-and-what-cannot

Online Commissioning vs. In-Person Notarization
At Affordable Markham Notary Public, we have experience with both remote commissioning and traditional in-person notarization.

Remote commissioning can certainly be useful. It allows people to complete eligible affidavits and declarations without travelling to an office, and it can be particularly convenient when distance or scheduling is an issue.

Why We Are Careful About the Term “Online Notarization”
The phrase “online notarization” makes it sound as though every service a notary provides in person can simply be transferred to a video call.

That is not how it works.

Ontario's remote-commissioning rules specifically permit certain oaths and declarations to be administered remotely. They do not mean that every document can be notarized online or that every receiving organization will accept a remotely completed document.

That is why we prefer to explain exactly what service is being provided rather than simply calling everything “online notarization.”

A Simple Rule of Thumb
If your document simply needs to be sworn, affirmed or declared, remote commissioning may be an option.

If your document needs an original document to be physically inspected, a certified true copy, or another service that requires in-person handling, you should expect to attend in person.

And if you are unsure, ask before completing the document.

The requirements of the organization receiving your document are just as important as the process used to sign or notarize it.

The Bottom Line
Remote commissioning is a legitimate and useful option in Ontario for eligible affidavits, statutory declarations and other oaths or declarations.

But remote commissioning is not a substitute for every notarial service.

For many routine documents, in-person service is also simpler, faster and more reliable. You can bring your documents and identification to our office, have the documents reviewed and completed, and leave with everything properly signed, commissioned, notarized or certified.

When it comes to notarization, the goal is not simply to complete a document online.

The goal is to make sure the document is completed correctly and that it will actually be accepted where you need to use it.

As always, you are welcome to walk-in to our office at 3636 Steeles Avenue East, Unit 312, Markham ON L3R 1K9, or book and appointment online today!

https://www.affordablemarkhamnotary.com/book-online

​The information on this website is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Viewing this website, sending an email, or communicating with Affordable Markham Notary Public does not create a lawyer-client relationship. Email communications may not be se...

09/25/2026

https://www.affordablemarkhamnotary.com/post/affidavit-of-identity-identification-in-ontario-what-you-need-to-know

09/08/2026

It’s back-to-school time!
Get your Custodianship Declaration (IMM5646) commissioned with us!

✔️ Always commissioned by a Law Society of Ontario–licensed lawyer or paralegal
✔️ Quick and convenient
✔️ Walk-ins welcome!

​The information on this website is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Viewing this website, sending an email, or communicating with Affordable Markham Notary Public does not create a lawyer-client relationship. Email communications may not be se...

09/07/2026

Statutory Declarations/Letters of Support from Friends in Support of Relationship for Immigration

When applying for immigration to Canada, applicants may sometimes need to provide evidence that a relationship is genuine and continuing. This is particularly common in spousal and common-law partner sponsorship applications, where Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) may consider evidence from people who know the couple personally.

One type of supporting evidence that may be provided is a statutory declaration from a friend or family member. A well-prepared statutory declaration can help explain how the declarant knows the couple, what they have personally observed about the relationship, and why they believe the relationship is genuine.

What Is a Statutory Declaration?
A statutory declaration is a formal written statement in which a person declares that the information contained in the document is true. Unlike an ordinary letter of support, a statutory declaration is generally signed and declared in the presence of an authorized person, such as a notary public or commissioner for taking affidavits, depending on the circumstances. For an immigration application, the declarant may be a friend, colleague, family member, or another person who has personal knowledge of the couple and their relationship.

Need a Statutory Declaration Commissioned in Markham?
If you need a statutory declaration from a friend or family member for an immigration application, Affordable Markham Notary Public can assist with commissioning your completed document.

We provide notary and commissioning services in Markham for statutory declarations and other documents commonly used for Canadian immigration applications. If you already have your declaration prepared, bring the completed document and valid government-issued photo identification to your appointment. If you need assistance determining what type of immigration evidence you should provide, you should consult an immigration lawyer or licensed immigration professional for advice specific to your application.

This article is provided for general information only and is not legal advice. Immigration requirements can vary depending on the type of application and individual circumstances. Applicants should refer to the current IRCC requirements and obtain professional immigration advice where appropriate.

Book here:https://www.affordablemarkhamnotary.com/booking-calendar/statutory-declaration?referral=service_list_widget

09/05/2026

Law Society of Ontario (LSO) Lawyer Licensing Process Application – Certified True Copies
If you’re applying through the Lawyer Licensing Process in Ontario, you will be required to submit certified true copies of supporting documents (i.e. passport) as part of your application.

At Affordable Markham Notary, we offer certified true copies for $25 per document, making the process simple, fast, and affordable. Just bring your passport, and we will photocopy it for you (no additional charge).

What Is a Certified True Copy?

A certified true copy is a photocopy of an original document that has been compared to the original by a Notary Public. The notary certifies that the copy is a true and accurate reproduction of the original document. Unlike commissioning, certifying a document as a true copy can only be completed in person.

Book an appointment here:

This service officially authenticates a photocopy as a precise, unaltered reproduction of its original document, which is required for many governmental, legal, and academic submissions. Certification is achieved when an authorized professional examines both the original and the copy, then affixes a...

08/15/2026

https://www.affordablemarkhamnotary.com/post/ontario-apostille-services-what-is-an-apostille-and-how-can-we-help

07/27/2026

https://www.affordablemarkhamnotary.com/post/uk-state-pension-life-certificate-in-ontario-how-a-notary-public-can-help

If you receive a UK State Pension while living in Ontario or elsewhere outside the United Kingdom, you may occasionally be asked by the UK Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to complete a Life Certificate.

Many pensioners are unsure who can witness the form or where to have it completed. Fortunately, if you live in Ontario, a Notary Public can usually act as an authorized witness.

At Affordable Markham Notary Public, we regularly assist clients with witnessing and notarizing documents for use in the United Kingdom, including UK Life Certificates.

If you receive a UK State Pension while living in Ontario or elsewhere outside the United Kingdom, you may occasionally be asked by the UK Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to complete a Life Certificate.Many pensioners are unsure who can witness the form or where to have it completed. Fortunat...

07/16/2026

https://www.affordablemarkhamnotary.com/post/what-does-a-notary-public-do-in-ontario

If you've ever been asked to "get a document notarized," you may have wondered what a Notary Public actually does. Whether you're preparing documents for travel, immigration, real estate, or use overseas, a Notary Public plays an important role in verifying documents and identities.At Affordable Mar...

06/13/2026

https://www.affordablemarkhamnotary.com/post/proof-of-life-and-life-certificates-for-pensions

How to Get a Proof of Life Certificate Notarized for Your Pension

If you receive a pension from another country, you may be asked to provide proof that you are still living in order to continue receiving your benefits. While it may sound unusual, this is a common requirement for pension plans, government agencies, and insurance providers around the world.

These documents are often called a Proof of Life Certificate, Life Certificate, Certificate of Existence, or Certificate of Life.

What Is a Proof of Life Certificate?

A Proof of Life Certificate is a document used to verify that a pension recipient or benefit holder is still alive and eligible to continue receiving payments. Many organizations require an independent professional, such as a Notary Public, to verify the individual's identity and certify the document.

How Often Do I Need to Submit One?

The frequency varies depending on the organization and country involved. Some pension providers require a life certificate every year, while others may request one every six months or every two years.

Can a Notary Public Sign My Life Certificate?

In many cases, yes. However, it is important to carefully review the instructions on your form before booking an appointment. A Notary Public can verify your identity and certify documents when the form permits notarization. However, if the form requires a witness or guarantor who personally knows you and can attest to knowing you for a specific period of time, a Notary Public may not be able to complete that section unless those requirements are met.

What Do I Need to Bring?

To have your life certificate notarized, you will generally need to:

Attend the appointment in person.

Bring valid government-issued photo identification, such as a passport or driver's licence.

Bring any additional documents required by the issuing organization.

Provide proof of address if the form specifically requires the notary to confirm your residence.

What Happens During the Appointment?

The Notary Public will:

Review your identification.

Confirm your identity and presence.

Witness your signature, if required.

Complete the notarial section of the form.

Sign, date, and apply their official notary seal.

Once completed, your Proof of Life Certificate will be ready to submit to your pension provider, government agency, or insurance company.

You can book an appointment here: https://www.affordablemarkhamnotary.com/booking-calendar/signature-notarization?referral=service_list_widget

​The information on this website is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Viewing this website, sending an email, or communicating with Affordable Markham Notary Public does not create a lawyer-client relationship. Email communications may not be se...