This is a question we get asked a lot!
A certified true copy is a copy of a document that a notary has verified and certified (stamped and signed) as a true copy of the original document. Common types of certified true copies are copies of identification, like birth certificates, passports and driver’s licenses, and are frequently required for applications for immigration and professional certification.
It works like this: the notary closely compares the original document and the copy. Once the notary is satisfied that the copy is a true copy of the original document, they write (or stamp) on the document “Certified True Copy of Original Document”, sign it, date it and stamp it with their notary seal. Voilà, a certified true copy of an original document!
Common Questions About Certified True Copies
Another common question about certified true copies: Does the notary have to see the original document to certify a true copy?
Yes! To certify a copy, the notary must be able to compare the original hard copy document to the copy. This means you must show the original document to the notary – a picture or a scan of the original document is not enough.
A common situation is when someone needs a certified true copy of their documents, but their documents are in Ontario and they are in another country. That’s okay – in that situation, you can ask a friend or a relative to take their documents and copies to the notary for certification.
Another common situation is when someone needs a certified true copy of their documents completed by a notary in Canada, but they and their documents are in another country. That’s also okay! Downtown Notary can arrange for you to send your documents to us. We then certify the copies and send the originals and certified copies back to you.
Need a certified true copy? Downtown Notary can help! Contact us today!