Global Apostille Canada / Destinations / Spain
Spain: apostille and legalization from Canada
Apostille only · no embassy stage
Most files for Spain are visas: study, work, non-lucrative residence and digital nomad applications all ask for an apostilled criminal record check, and often an apostilled degree. Spain is a party to the Apostille Convention, so one Canadian apostille is accepted directly, with no embassy stage.
The route your document takes
The Hague Apostille Convention applies to this destination (Spain). 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.
- Criminal record checks for visas
- University degrees and transcripts
- Birth and marriage certificates
- Powers of attorney for property
- Corporate documents
Worth knowing
Spain generally wants a sworn translation (traducción jurada) by a translator accredited in Spain, not one made here. Have the apostille done first, so the sworn translation covers it too.
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