Certified True Copies: Why They Matter and How to Get Them in Canada

Official documents may feel like a complex puzzle to unravel when you see the term "certified true copy." Although a certified true copy is a pretty basic concept, a legitimate verified copy of an original document, it will most likely be one of the most important documents you will require for major life-changing events, such as submitting your application for immigration status or applying to an international university, or obtaining a professional license. If you submit an application without a certified true copy of the document that is done properly, there is a high likelihood that the application will be delayed or denied.

This guide outlines what a certified true copy is, why it is necessary to have a certified true copy when applying and receiving documents in Canada and abroad, as well as how to obtain your certified true copies quickly and easily, in larger cities across Canada, such as Edmonton and Surrey.

What Exactly Is a Certified True Copy?

A certified true copy is an official verification stating that the verified document you are receiving is an exact and true copy, without any alterations, of the original document. In simple words, scanning your document is not a certification; whereas you have scanned the original document, although there was no verification that the copy is an official document executed by a document examining authorized Party, such as a Notary Public or lawyer.

To certify the copy, the official:

• Verifies the photocopy against the original document.

• Signs and dates the photocopy.

• Stamps or seals their verification onto the document. 

• Includes wording on the photocopy indicating that it is a "certified true copy of the original document". 
  

Notarized Copy vs. Certified True Copy: Knowing the Difference

Most people confuse the terms, but there is a very small difference which legally depends on whether the official in your area is a Notary Public or a Commissioner of Oaths. There is a value in knowing, as it can make your request more clear.

Certified True Copy

It means the official verifies the photocopy as an exact and correct reproduction of the original paper. They are merely endorsing the correctness of the copy; they are not attesting to whether any information on the actual document is truthful or valid.

Notarized Copy (or notarization): 

More precisely, notarization means taking the witness of a signature or oath. However, when agencies ask for a "notarized copy," it's almost always a certified true copy prepared by a Notary Public. 

When you book your service, the safest request is to have a certified true copy notarized by either a Notary Public or commissioner of oaths as that will fulfill practical, if not all of your official, needs.

When Do You Need a Certified True Copy?

You are required to arrange for this service in any application that has a requirement for official verification of identity, education, or status, but you must keep the important original.

1. Immigration and Visa Applications

This is one of the most frequent reasons. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada always request, and/or require, certified true copies of important personal documents. 

Examples: passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate, permanent resident card

2. Education and Registration

Whether you are going to apply to study abroad or transfer academic credits, institutions require strong backup for your educational history

Examples: university diplomas, transcripts, professional designations

3. Legal and Financial Considerations

Any legal action that involves property, large sums of money, or verified identity as the years go by will also require a certified true copy legal document.

Examples: wills, powers of attorney, corporate records, land registration papers.

How to Obtain a Certified True Copy in Canada (Edmonton & Surrey)

Once you know the steps, it is easy to understand how to get certified true copy documents. The number one determiner you have in being able to get a certified true copy of your document will be whether or not you have the right items on your person, and if you have been able to find the territorial authority that can perform this duty. 

Step 1: Gather Your Documents

You will be required to have the original and a new full and legible photocopy of that document. Do not expect that the official will have a copy machine on site, as many places do not have this: so be sure to have your own copy.

Step 2: Find the Appropriate Official 

In Canada, the selected officials are mainly a Notary Public (Notary) and Commissioner for Oaths (Commissioner). Be sure the professional is actively licensed in their province. Look for a trusted provider of a certified true copies service Edmonton or a certified true copy surrey.

Step 3: Complete the Verification

The official will first look at the original document for specifics to ensure the copy that the original is an identical copy and then stamp, sign, and seal the copy.

Certified True Copy Services in Edmonton and Surrey

Getting fast and easy access to this service is vital when application deadlines loom. Both Edmonton and Surrey provide convenient choices to meet different needs.

Certified True Copies Service Edmonton: In-Person Reliability

In Edmonton, you have many reliable locations for certifying your papers. The professional office environment often provides the greatest trust. Services are typically available through:

• Law Firms: Great if your documents are related to complicated legal cases.

• Dedicated Notary Offices: These offices focus only on notarial services, often meaning faster service and simple, fixed pricing.

If you are in or near the Alberta capital, finding an experienced provider of a certified true copies service Edmonton for quick, same-day appointments is straightforward.

Get Certified True Copy Document Surrey: Flexible Mobile and Online Options

In Surrey and the surrounding Greater Vancouver area, services are often set up for speed and flexibility:

• Mobile Notary Service: Many Surrey notaries provide mobile services which means they will come to your home or office for your appointment. This is ideal for someone who has a tight schedule or is otherwise have difficulty getting to the appointment.

• Online or Virtual Notary Service: Depending on the document and the rules of the agency that is receiving the document, you might be able to use a virtual service. This allows you to securely get certified true copy document surrey without leaving your location.

Conclusion

A certified true copy is not a random piece of paper with a stamp; it is the official verification that makes your important applications valid. Once you clearly understand the steps and where to access service, whether you want a certified true copy legal document service fast, in person in Edmonton or an up-to-date mobile option in Surrey, you set your paperwork on a correct path and your path to your goals begins right away. Now find a trusted Notary Public to finish your process with confidence!