If someone you know is applying for a visitor visa to come to Canada, you may be asked to write them a letter of invitation. One of the most common questions we get is whether that letter needs to be notarized.
Does it have to be notarized?
For most visitor visa applications, a letter of invitation does not need to be notarized. However, in some situations the visitor, a visa office, or a representative handling the application may ask for a notarized letter. If you have been specifically asked for one, we can help.
What an invitation letter usually includes
- information about the visitor, such as full name, date of birth, address and relationship to you;
- the purpose and length of the visit and where they will stay;
- information about you as host, including your status in Canada, address and contact details;
- who will pay for travel, accommodation and living expenses during the visit.
Always follow the latest guidance from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and any instructions the visitor has received.
If you need it notarized
- Prepare your letter completely, but leave it unsigned.
- Bring valid government-issued photo ID.
- At the appointment, we confirm your identity, witness your signature and complete a notarial certificate or commission the letter as a declaration, depending on what has been requested.
We cannot advise on whether a visa will be approved or what the letter should say for your situation. For that, consult a lawyer or licensed immigration consultant.
Free template
Our free letter of invitation template can help you get started.
Related reading
- Free template: Letter of Invitation to Canada
- IRCC statutory declarations for international students
- IMM 5409 common-law declarations
- What ID do you need for notarization in Ontario?
- Our notary services
Book with Crown Seal Notary
Crown Seal Notary serves Hamilton and the surrounding area seven days a week. In-office appointments are available at 21 King St W, 5th Floor, and our mobile service comes to your home, workplace, hospital or care home. To book, call 289-207-0851, email info@csnotary.org, or book online. You can also browse all of our services or read our FAQs.
Please note: Crown Seal Notary provides notarization and commissioning services only. We do not provide legal, immigration or financial advice, and we cannot tell you what to write in your document. If you are unsure which document you need, please check with the organization that asked for it or speak with a lawyer or licensed paralegal.
