Apostille & Document Services
Documents used in another country often need to be authenticated first. We help you work out which steps your document needs, prepare it correctly and coordinate each step with the right office, so it is accepted the first time. We do not issue apostilles ourselves; they are issued by the competent government authority.
Apostille assistance
Canada joined the Hague Apostille Convention in January 2024. We identify the competent authority for your document, federal or provincial, check that it is ready for submission, and coordinate the application.
- Document and destination review
- Preparation checklist
- Submission coordination
- Tracking and return delivery
Authentication coordination
For countries that are not part of the Apostille Convention, we coordinate authentication and the additional legalization steps those countries require.
- Requirements by destination country
- Authentication and legalization steps
- Courier coordination
Notarial referrals
Referrals to notaries public for certified true copies, signature witnessing and other notarial acts that must come before authentication.
- Certified true copies
- Signature witnessing
- Referral and scheduling
Commissioner for Oaths appointments
Scheduling with a Commissioner for Oaths for affidavits and statutory declarations that need to be sworn or affirmed.
- Appointment scheduling
- Document readiness check
- Remote options where permitted
Document preparation support
Help assembling the supporting documents, copies and translations a foreign institution has asked for, organized and checked against its list.
- Checklist review
- Translation coordination
- Organized document packages
From first call to handover.
Every Apostille & Document Services engagement follows the same four steps.
Scope
A short call or written request to understand what you need, your deadline and any requirements from third parties.
Proposal
A written proposal with scope, deliverables, timeline and a fixed price or monthly fee. Nothing starts until you approve it.
Delivery
The work is done in agreed stages, with a named contact and regular updates in English or Spanish.
Handover and support
You receive the files, accounts and documentation, plus an optional support plan.
Frequently asked.
Something else on your mind? Ask us directly through the contact form.
Do you issue apostilles?
No. Apostilles are issued only by the competent authority, such as Global Affairs Canada or the designated provincial office, depending on the document. We help you prepare the document and coordinate the process.
Is this legal advice?
No. Sterna IT & Professional Services provides administrative coordination. If your situation needs legal advice, we refer you to a licensed lawyer or notary.
How long does an apostille take?
Processing times are set by the issuing authority and change through the year. We give you the current published estimate when we review your document.
Request a quote for Apostille & Document Services
Tell us what you need and your deadline. We reply within two business days with questions or a written proposal.