In many legal and administrative matters in Ontario, you may be asked to provide an affidavit or statutory declaration. These are formal, sworn statements that confirm certain facts are true under oath or affirmation. They are often required for court filings, government forms, immigration applications, real estate transactions, and business matters.
In the past, you always had to appear in person before a notary or commissioner of oaths to sign. Today, remote commissioning allows you to complete these documents virtually using secure video technology. This change has made the process more flexible and accessible, especially for people who cannot travel easily or who live outside the downtown core.
Understanding Affidavits and Statutory Declarations
An affidavit is a sworn statement of facts made under oath or affirmation, commonly used in court or legal proceedings. A statutory declaration is a solemn declaration made when no oath is required but a written confirmation of facts is needed. Both require an authorized commissioner or notary to witness your signature and confirm your identity.
You may need one of these documents when:
- Confirming identity, residency, or marital status
- Providing sworn statements for court applications
- Declaring financial information or business records
- Supporting immigration, licensing, or government forms
Remote Commissioning in Ontario
Ontario law allows remote commissioning for affidavits and statutory declarations as long as specific requirements are met. You and the commissioner must see and hear each other in real time, usually through a video call. The commissioner must confirm your identity, watch you sign the document, and then sign and seal it themselves.
The document must include all of the information normally found on the commissioner’s stamp, and the commissioner must follow proper procedures for administering the oath or affirmation. If the technology fails or video quality is poor, the process may need to be repeated to ensure the document is valid.
Benefits for Ottawa Residents
Remote commissioning saves time and travel, which is especially helpful for people in areas like Orléans, Gloucester, Westboro, and Nepean. It allows you to get urgent documents signed without leaving home or work, and it makes the process more efficient for both clients and legal professionals.
Key Things to Keep in Mind
- Have valid photo identification ready before your appointment.
- Do not sign the document until you are connected with the commissioner and they instruct you to do so.
- Make sure your internet connection is stable so the commissioner can clearly see and hear you.
- Use a trusted notary or commissioner who is experienced with remote commissioning to avoid errors that could invalidate the document.
