Proof Without the Risk of Losing Originals
What Is a Certified True Copy? A certified true copy is a photocopy of an original document that has been verified by a notary public or commissioner of oaths as an accurate and complete replica. It’s stamped and signed to confirm that it matches the original. Imagine this: You need to submit your passport as part of an immigration application, but you don’t feel safe mailing it across the country — or worse, overseas. Instead, you provide a certified true copy. That way, the organisation gets the info they need, and you keep your original safe. Certified true copies are often required for legal, academic, or official processes when original documents can’t be submitted.
When would you need one?
Here are common situations where certified true copies are essential:
- Applying for a visa or passport and the embassy requires copies of your ID, birth certificate, or academic degrees.
- Enrolling in school or applying for jobs where proof of your credentials is needed.
- Real estate transactions where property documents or IDs are submitted remotely.
- Immigration or citizenship applications where documents are reviewed by IRCC or another agency.
- Insurance or financial claims that require proof of key documents.
One client in Vancouver was applying to study in the UK and needed to submit a certified copy of her high school diploma. We helped her get it done in 15 minutes — with zero risk to her original document.
What documents can be certified?
Notaries can certify a wide variety of original documents, including:
- Passports
- Driver’s licences
- Birth, marriage, or death certificates
- Immigration documents
- Academic diplomas and transcripts
- Utility bills (as proof of address)
- Legal contracts
- Wills or Power of Attorney (when copies are requested)
- Corporate documents (for business registration or compliance)
If you’re unsure whether your document can be certified, just ask — we’ll confirm before your appointment.
How to get a certified true copy?
Here’s how the process works:
- Bring the original document with you
A notary must compare the photocopy to the original — so don’t forget to bring it along. - We make a high-quality photocopy Or, if you already have a clean copy, we can use that.
- We verify both documents The notary checks that the copy matches the original, word for word, and image for image.
- We sign and stamp it The copy is then marked as “Certified True Copy of the Original” and signed with an official seal and date.
- You’re good to go Submit the certified copy wherever it’s needed, while keeping your original safe at home.
It’s fast, affordable, and widely accepted across Canada and internationally.
Why you shouldn't certify copies yourself
Photocopying a document and calling it “true” without official certification doesn’t hold up — especially when dealing with government, legal, or financial institutions.
Without proper witnessing and verification, your copy may be:
- Rejected
- Delayed
- Flagged as fraudulent
That’s why we use secure stamps, detailed wording, and ID verification to give your copy real legal weight.
In-Person & Hassle Free
We’ve made it easy to get your documents notarised with a local notary — no complicated tech, no video calls, no second-guessing. Here’s how it works:
Download the forms
Head to our site and download the Last Will and Power of Attorney templates or bring your own if you’ve already prepared them.
Book an appointment
Use our directory to find a trusted public notary near you. Pick a convenient date and time that works best for your schedule.
Print Your Documents
Make sure all pages are printed clearly and completely — double-sided printing is fine if everything’s visible.
Bring Your Checklist
Details matter but don’t stress — we’ve laid out everything you’ll need to bring with you in a simple checklist below.
Appointment Checklist
To get your Last Will and Power of Attorney legally notarised, bring the following:
- Two pieces of valid ID (at least one government-issued photo ID)
- Printed documents (Last Will and/or POA)
- A clear understanding of your wishes (your notary may ask for clarification)
- The name and contact info of your chosen executor or attorney(s)
- Any other relevant documents or instructions related to your estate, assets, or healthcare wishes
- Print your receipt (emailed to you after your online purchase)
Tip: If your documents need witnesses in addition to a notary, ask the notary in advance if they can provide them — or bring someone with you who’s not listed in your Will or POA.
Need multiple copies?
No problem. We can create and certify as many copies as you need during the same appointment. Great for:
- Multiple college applications
- Real estate or immigration submissions
- Corporate records
We offer package pricing to make bulk certifying easier and more affordable.