Original document examination
In-person review of originals before notarization.
Can I have a signature witnessed online in Ontario?
We confirm this with you.
Witnessing a signature requires the professional to observe the signing in person, so general signature witnessing and notarial authentication are done at an in-person appointment. We confirm the format for your document before you book.
- In-person appointment
- Wet-ink signature
- Government photo ID
How it works with enotarypublic
You bring the unsigned document and photo ID to a GTA office. The notary or witness observes the signing and applies the seal.
Foreign use: Documents for use abroad often need a notary's seal and a later apostille or legalization, and many institutions require wet ink.
General legal information for Ontario residents, not formal legal advice.
What this covers
Some services — such as certified true copies — require the notary to inspect a genuine original in person. This appointment lets the commissioner examine the original and complete the notarization on the spot.
When you’d need it
- Certified true copies of originals
- Verifying security features of an ID
- Documents that cannot be scanned in advance
- Where an institution requires original review
General information only — not legal advice. Whether this can be completed online depends on the document and the receiving institution; we confirm before you book.
In-person notarization — common questions
When do I need in-person notarization?▾
When an institution or foreign authority requires a wet-ink signature and an embossed seal on the original, or for services that cannot be done by video — such as general signature witnessing and certified true copies.
What do I bring to the appointment?▾
Valid government-issued photo ID, the original document, and any exhibits referenced in it.
Do I sign before I arrive?▾
No. In most cases you sign in front of the commissioner or notary, who witnesses the signing and applies the seal.
Can you help with an apostille afterward?▾
Yes. Documents for use abroad often need an apostille or authentication and legalization after the notarial step, and we can prepare that.
More general questions are answered on our FAQ page.