Lost Important Documents? Here's What to Do and How a Notary Can Help
Discover step-by-step solutions when you've lost your passport, birth certificate, or other vital documents. Learn how notary services can help you recover.
Minutes Notary
Notary Public • Ottawa, ON

Panic Mode: You've Lost an Important Document
It happens to everyone. You're packing for an international trip, applying for a job, or submitting an immigration application when you realize — a critical document is missing.
Don't panic. Here's your action plan.
Step 1: Search Thoroughly First
Before taking any official action, conduct a thorough search:
- Check all files, folders, and storage boxes
- Look in places you might have left documents temporarily
- Ask family members if they've seen or moved it
- Check your car, office, or other locations
Step 2: Report the Loss (If Necessary)
For certain documents, you may need to report the loss:
Passport
Contact Service Canada or the Passport Office immediately. A lost passport should be reported to prevent identity theft.
Driver's License
Report to ServiceOntario and apply for a replacement.
Birth Certificate
Order a replacement from ServiceOntario or the vital statistics office of your birth province.
How a Notary Public Can Help
Here's where notary services become invaluable:


