Notary Public in Quebec
Quebec operates under a civil-law system. Notaries (notaires) are public officers and legal professionals with far broader authority than common-law notaries — they draft authentic acts, handle estates, and act as legal advisors.
Who can act as a notary in Quebec
Notaires must hold a law degree, complete a Master of Notarial Law (DDN), and be members of the Chambre des notaires du Québec.
Common notarial services
- Drafting authentic acts (marriage contracts, mortgages, wills by notarial act)
- Real estate transactions and title verification
- Estate settlement, probate, and incapacity mandates
- Certified true copies and statutory declarations
How fees work
Quebec notaires set their own professional fees. Mobile, weekend, and bilingual services may carry a premium.
Apostille & international authentication
Since January 11, 2024, Quebec documents are apostilled by the Ministère de la Justice du Québec or Global Affairs Canada for use in Hague Convention countries.
Frequently asked questions
Is a Quebec notaire the same as a notary public in English Canada?
No. A Quebec notaire is a fully qualified legal professional under civil law, equivalent in many functions to a solicitor — far broader than the common-law notarial role.
Do I need a notaire or an avocat (lawyer) in Quebec?
For non-contentious matters (real estate, wills, estates, marriage contracts), a notaire is typical. For litigation, you would retain an avocat.