Preparing documents for a Canadian immigration application is essential to ensure a smooth process and avoid delays. Many applicants need to provide notarized copies of official documents to validate their authenticity, and in cases where a family member or friend invites you to Canada, an invitation letter is often required.
Step 1: Understanding Notarization Canadian Immigration
For Canadian immigration, notarization serves as a form of document authentication. It is often needed when you are submitting copies of key documents instead of the originals, ensuring that the copies are genuine and unaltered.
Common Types of Documents Requiring Notarization
- Passports and Travel Documents: If you’re submitting a copy of your passport, it needs to be certified to confirm that it’s a true copy of the original.
- Birth and Marriage Certificates: These documents prove relationships, and notarized copies are required for applications involving family sponsorship, spousal sponsorship, or dependents.
- Educational Transcripts and Diplomas: Proof of education, such as degrees and transcripts, often needs notarization for study permits and some work permits to validate educational qualifications.
- Employment Records: Work history documents like letters of reference or employment contracts may need notarization, especially if they are translations or if you’re submitting copies.
- Proof of Funds: Bank statements, proof of assets, and other financial documents may require notarization to confirm their authenticity.
- Invitation Letters: If a Canadian resident or citizen invites you to visit, work, or study in Canada, they will need to write an invitation letter. While not all invitation letters require notarization, it’s highly recommended, as it adds credibility to the letter.
In Ontario, Canada, Dodo Notary offers professional notarization services, providing an affordable and convenient solution for immigrants who need their documents certified. With over 5 years of expertise in Notarization and Certifications, Dodo Notary ensures your notarized documents meet the standards expected by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
What is an Invitation Letter?
An invitation letter is a document written by a Canadian citizen or permanent resident who invites you to visit, study, or work in Canada. It’s commonly used in visitor visa applications, family sponsorships, and certain study permit applications.
What do I include in an Invitation letter?
A comprehensive invitation letter should contain:
- Details of the Person Inviting You: Full name, date of birth, address, phone number, and proof of Canadian citizenship or permanent residency.
- Relationship with the Applicant: Explain the relationship with the invitee and why the invitation is extended.
- Details of the Visit: Dates of the visit, purpose, planned activities, and a statement of the inviter's commitment to provide accommodation or financial support if applicable.
A notarized invitation letter is highly recommended, as it adds legitimacy to the letter.
Step 2: Translating and Notarizing Foreign-Language Documents
If any documents are in a language other than English or French, IRCC requires you to provide a certified translation along with the original. Notarization is usually required to confirm that the translation is accurate.
Step 3: Document Submission Tips
After gathering, translating, and notarizing documents, review them thoroughly. Ensure the following:
- Scans and copies are clear.
- All notarizations are correctly dated and sealed.
- Translations and originals are paired and properly organized.
For complex cases, Dodo Immigration offers document review services, helping ensure that every requirement is met before submission. Our team is experienced in verifying documentation for work permits, Express Entry, family sponsorships, and other immigration pathways.
Preparing for Canadian immigration involves careful attention to documentation requirements, from notarized copies to certified translations and invitation letters.