Introducing Online Document Signing & Commissioning
Notary Pro Canada is proud to introduce Ontario’s first online document signing and commissioning service.
Using a simple and innovative online video platform, you can digitally sign your documents online with a licensed Ontario Commissioner and Notary Public, all from the comfort and safety of your own home.
Approved by the Law Society of Ontario, Notary Pro’s online signing solution is fast and easy to use.
How do I book online?
How does it work?
Frequently Asked Questions about Online Document Signing (Remote Video Commissioning)
Is it legal to commission (sign) documents online and remotely via video?
Yes, as of March 17, 2020, the Law Society of Ontario stated that lawyers (as commissioners) may commission documents via virtual platforms, such as online video. As a result, Notary Pro is offering Ontario’s first online document signing service for clients looking to commission their documents, anywhere they want.
What is the process to commission my documents online?
It’s very simple. After you book an appointment and securely upload your documents, you will receive a link to join an online Zoom Meeting (laptop video chat) – or, you can connect directly with your Notary Pro via FaceTime or WhatsApp.
On the video call, your Notary Pro will check your ID, send you a link to digitally sign your document, and then witness you e-sign.
The Notary Pro will then digitally counter-sign and formally commission the document. You will instantly receive a fully commissioned document via email. It’s fast, simple, and easy.
What about my privacy?
Your privacy and security is the highest priority at Notary Pro Canada, and your trust in this underpins our services. All information and data uploads will be handled in compliance with Canada’s Personal Information and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA). For more information, read the Notary Pro Canada privacy statement.
Doesn’t the commissioner/notary need to physically seal or emboss my document?
No! Section 4(2) of the Ontario Notaries Act states that “it is not necessary” for the notary public to “affix his or her seal.” In other words, a digital signature reprinted by you is perfectly valid. If there is ever any question about the document, have the organization contact Notary Pro Canada directly.
The law in Ontario is simple:
Need not affix seal on affidavits, etc.
(2) Where a notary public is authorized by any Act of the Legislature to administer oaths or to take affidavits or declarations in Ontario, it is not necessary to the validity of any such oath, affidavit or declaration that he or she affix his or her seal thereto. R.S.O. 1990, c. N.6, s. 4 (2).
I’m confused. Is the commissioner a lawyer? Is the commissioner also a notary public? Which is which?
All Notary Pro Canada notaries are duly licensed lawyers in the Province of Ontario. All lawyers are also commissioners of oaths (sometimes called commissioners for taking affidavits) by virtue of their role as a lawyer.
In the simplest terms:
- All Notary Pro Canada Notaries = Licensed Lawyers
- All Lawyers in Ontario = Commissioners for taking affidavits
Finally, the law is clear about this. The Ontario Notaries Act states:
Power to take affidavits
4 (1) A notary public has and may exercise the powers of a commissioner for taking affidavits in Ontario. R.S.O. 1990, c. N.6, s. 4 (1).
Bottom line: you are in good (virtual) hands with any Notary Pro. We are professionals you can trust.
Have another question? Email us or call us toll-free 1-888-313-0909