Documents we commonly assist with
- Affidavits and statutory declarations.
- Certified true copies and identity documents.
- Powers of attorney and authorizations intended for use in China.
- Consent letters and selected travel documents.
- Business and real estate documents requiring notarization.
- Certified Chinese-English translations within the firm’s available services.
Notarization is not always the final step
Canada joined the Apostille Convention on January 11, 2024. For countries covered by the Convention, an apostille may replace the former consular legalization step. The receiving authority still decides what document, wording, translation and supporting material it will accept. China’s requirements may vary by transaction and local authority.
Before your appointment, ask the receiving lawyer, notary, court, bank or government office for its written requirements. Bring those instructions, the unsigned original document and valid identification. Do not sign a document that must be witnessed before the appointment.
A practical document checklist
1. Confirm exactly which authority will receive the document.
2. Obtain its current written requirements, including language and apostille needs.
3. Send the draft to our office for review before the appointment if drafting is required.
4. Bring original identification and every supporting document requested.
5. Complete the provincial or federal apostille step, if required, after notarization.