Immigration Documents Checklist: What Needs to Be Notarized? | Minute Notary Blog | Minute Notary
Immigration
January 8, 20255 min read
Immigration Documents Checklist: What Needs to Be Notarized?
Complete checklist of documents you'll need for Canadian immigration applications. Know exactly what needs notarization vs. certification.
MN
Minutes Notary
Notary Public • Ottawa, ON
Navigating Immigration Paperwork
Applying for Canadian immigration can feel overwhelming. Between IRCC requirements, supporting documents, and tight deadlines, it's easy to miss something important.
This guide breaks down exactly what documents you'll need and what notary services are required for each.
Types of Immigration Applications
Before diving into specifics, here are the main application types:
Permanent Residence (PR) — Express Entry, Provincial Nominee, Family Sponsorship
Work Permits — LMIA-based, Open Work Permits, IEC
Study Permits — International students
Visitor Visas (TRV) — Tourism, family visits, business
Citizenship — After meeting PR requirements
Universal Document Requirements
These documents are needed for almost all immigration applications:
Police clearance certificates from every country where you've lived for 6+ months. These usually need to be original documents, not copies.
Express Entry & Provincial Nominee (PR)
Educational Credentials
Document
Requirement
Diplomas/Degrees
Certified true copies
Transcripts
Certified true copies
ECA (Educational Credential Assessment)
Original from WES, IQAS, etc.
Work Experience
Document
Requirement
Reference letters
Original on company letterhead
Pay stubs
Copies (sometimes certified)
Tax documents
Copies or certified copies
Language Test Results
IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF results are sent directly to IRCC — no notarization needed.
Family Sponsorship
Family sponsorship requires additional relationship proof:
Spousal Sponsorship
Document
Notary Service Required
Relationship questionnaires
Notarized signatures
Statutory declaration of common-law
Sworn before notary
Joint financial documents
Certified copies
Photos together
Usually copies are fine
Parent & Grandparent Sponsorship
Document
Notary Service Required
Birth certificates (showing relationship)
Certified true copies
Proof of income (NOAs)
Certified copies recommended
Undertaking form
Original signature
Work Permits
LMIA-Based Work Permits
Document
Requirement
LMIA confirmation
Original from employer
Job offer letter
Original on letterhead
Educational credentials
Certified true copies
Professional licenses
Certified true copies
Open Work Permits (Spousal)
Document
Requirement
Spouse's valid permit/status
Certified copy
Proof of relationship
As per sponsorship
Marriage certificate
Certified true copy
Study Permits
Document
Requirement
Letter of acceptance
Original from institution
Proof of funds
Bank statements (recent)
Educational transcripts
Certified true copies
Custodian declaration (minors)
Notarized
Common Affidavits for Immigration
Sometimes IRCC requires sworn statements:
Affidavit of Support
A sponsor declares they will financially support the applicant. Learn more about our affidavit services.
Affidavit of Relationship
Declares the nature of relationship between applicant and sponsor.
Statutory Declaration of Common-Law Relationship
Proves you've lived together for 12+ months.
Affidavit of No Criminal Record
If police certificate is unavailable from a certain country.
Tips for Successful Applications
✓ Start Early
Some documents take weeks to obtain. Start gathering them as soon as possible.
✓ Check Specific Requirements
IRCC requirements change. Always check the most current checklist for your specific application type.
✓ Keep Originals Safe
Only submit certified copies unless originals are specifically requested. Keep your originals in a safe place.
✓ Organize by Category
Use dividers or separate folders for each document type. Label everything clearly.
✓ Make Extra Copies
Have 2-3 certified copies of important documents. You may need them for other applications or future reference.
Cost Estimates
Service
Estimated Cost
Certified copy (per document)
$20-25
Statutory declaration
$25-35
Affidavit
$30-40
Multiple documents (package)
Ask for quote
Processing Times for Notary Services
Service
Time Required
Certified copies
Same day (walk-in)
Simple affidavits
Same day (with draft)
Complex statutory declarations
May need appointment
Ready to Prepare Your Immigration Documents?
At Minutes Notary, we specialize in immigration document services. We understand IRCC requirements and can ensure your documents meet all specifications.
Book your appointment and bring your checklist — we'll help you get everything in order.
Everything you need to know about document requirements for Express Entry applications. From ECA to police certificates, get your PR application right the first time.
