Maryland apostille for Canada
Need a Maryland document accepted in Canada? Canada is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, so one apostille from the Maryland Secretary of State is all it needs. No embassy visit, no consular legalization.
What Canada requires
Canada joined the convention recently, on January 11, 2024. Before that, US documents for Canada had to be authenticated and then legalized at its embassy. Now the apostille alone is accepted, which is faster and cheaper. Some local offices may still be adjusting, so if anyone asks for embassy legalization, point them to the apostille rules or ask us for help.
The official languages of Canada are English and French. If your document is in English, the office that receives it may ask for a certified translation. Translations are usually done after the apostille is attached, and some offices want the apostille translated too. Ask the receiving office what it requires.
The apostille confirms that the signature and seal on your document are genuine. It does not change what the document says, and the office in Canada decides whether the document itself meets its rules, for example how recently it was issued.
How we get your apostille for Canada
Order online
Fill in the order form. We confirm the price and send mailing instructions.
Send the original
Mail or drop off your certified copy or notarized document.
Court and state filing
Notarized documents go to the Circuit Court clerk first, then the Secretary of State issues the apostille.
Shipped back to you
Your apostilled document is shipped with tracking, anywhere in the world.
Documents we apostille for Canada
Price for Canada
| Document type | Per document |
|---|---|
| Maryland certified copy (vital, court, SDAT) | $50 |
| Notarized in Maryland | $50 + court fee |
| Federal document (FBI, FDA) | $57 |
Canada apostille questions
Does Canada accept apostilles from Maryland?
Yes. Canada is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, so an apostille issued by the Maryland Secretary of State is recognized there.
Do I need to take my documents to the Canada embassy?
No. The apostille replaces embassy or consular legalization for Canada.
Do I need a translation for Canada?
Often, yes, if the document is not in English. Translations are usually done after the apostille. Check with the office in Canada that will receive the document.
How much does a Maryland apostille for Canada cost?
$50 per document, including the $5 Maryland state fee, plus return shipping. Notarized documents also need a Circuit Court certification, billed at cost.