Global Apostille Canada / Destinations / China
China: apostille and legalization from Canada
Apostille only · no embassy stage
China joined the Apostille Convention recently, which removed the consular stage for most files. A Canadian apostille is now accepted on its own, and the practical effect is that a work-permit package that used to take weeks at the consulate no longer goes there at all.
The route your document takes
The Hague Apostille Convention applies to this destination (China). A single apostille from the Canadian competent authority is enough, with no embassy stage.
- TranslationCertified translation into the language your destination requires. Depends on your document
- NotarizationA notary or commissioner certifies the copy, the signature or the translator's affidavit. Depends on your document
- ApostilleThe competent Canadian authority issues the apostille certificate. Always
- LegalizationEmbassy or consular stamp, for destinations outside the Hague Convention. Not required
This is a preliminary route, not a legal opinion. Convention membership and embassy requirements change; we confirm the exact chain for your file in writing before any work starts.
What people usually send
The documents we most often prepare for this destination. If yours is not here, it is almost certainly still something we handle.
- University degrees and transcripts
- Police clearance certificates
- Birth and marriage certificates
- Corporate documents for a WFOE or joint venture
- Medical certificates for work permits
Worth knowing
A Chinese translation is usually required by the receiving authority, but it is normally done in China rather than here. Ask the office receiving your file which they want before paying for a translation twice.
Where is your document from?
The authority that issues the apostille depends on the province the document was issued in, not on where you live.
- Own apostille office
- Quebec, Ontario, Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan
- Every other province and territory
- Global Affairs Canada, Ottawa