The relationship register document is an official record of a domestic partnership or civil union, often used to formally recognize a couple’s relationship without entering into a full legal marriage. In Canada, each province and territory may have its own specific guidelines for registering a domestic partnership or civil union, making this document a legally binding proof of a relationship in various contexts, such as immigration, inheritance, or healthcare decisions. In many situations, particularly when dealing with international legal or administrative matters, a Canadian relationship register document may need to be notarized to ensure its authenticity and acceptance.

What is a Relationship Register Document?

A relationship register document is a formal record issued by a provincial or territorial government that recognizes the relationship between two individuals. It serves as proof of a domestic partnership or civil union, granting legal rights and obligations similar to those of married couples, depending on the jurisdiction. Relationship registers are often used by couples who want legal recognition of their partnership without getting married, or by same-sex couples in jurisdictions where marriage was not previously available.

Some common uses of a relationship register document include:

• Immigration and Visa Applications: Couples applying for visas or permanent residency often need to prove the existence and legitimacy of their relationship. A relationship register document can be a critical piece of evidence in these applications.
• Healthcare and Medical Decisions: Registered partners may have legal rights to make medical decisions on behalf of their partner or to access healthcare benefits.
• Inheritance and Property Rights: In cases where one partner passes away, a registered relationship can grant the surviving partner legal rights to inherit property or assets.
• Pension and Social Security Benefits: Some pension or social security systems require proof of a legal relationship for partners to access benefits.

Why is Notarization Required?

Notarization is the process by which a notary public certifies the authenticity of a document or the signatures on it. Notarizing a relationship register document may be necessary in several situations, especially when dealing with foreign institutions, governments, or legal bodies that require additional validation of Canadian documents. Here’s why notarization is often essential:

1. Authentication for International Use: When a Canadian relationship register document is used in another country, it often needs to be notarized to confirm its authenticity. For example, if a Canadian couple is applying for immigration to another country or seeking recognition of their partnership abroad, the foreign government or institution may require the document to be notarized to ensure it’s genuine.
2. Legal Compliance in Cross-Border Matters: In cross-border legal matters, such as settling a partner’s estate or claiming property abroad, notarization ensures that the relationship register document is legally valid in the foreign jurisdiction. Courts or legal entities may reject uncertified documents, so notarization provides an extra layer of legal assurance.
3. Proof of Identity and Legitimacy: Notarization by a notary public verifies that the individuals signing or presenting the document are who they claim to be. This is especially important when submitting documents for official purposes, such as applying for joint visas, tax benefits, or insurance claims.

The Notarization Process for a Canadian Relationship Register Document

1. Obtain the Document: Before notarization, the relationship register document must be issued by the relevant provincial or territorial authority. Ensure that the document is an official copy from the government, as notarization cannot proceed with a non-official or altered document.
2. Visit a Notary Public: The individuals listed on the relationship register document must present the original document to a licensed notary public in Canada. If the document is being used internationally, it’s recommended to visit a notary who is familiar with international requirements for document certification.
3. Verification and Witnessing: The notary will verify the identity of the individuals presenting the document, typically by checking valid photo identification such as a passport or driver’s license. The notary may also witness the individuals signing an affidavit affirming the authenticity of the document, depending on the specific legal requirements of the situation.
4. Seal and Signature: Once the verification process is complete, the notary public will affix their seal or stamp and sign the document, certifying that it has been properly notarized.
5. Apostille or Legalization (If Necessary): In some cases, further authentication may be required, especially for use in countries outside of Canada. If the country where the document will be used is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, an apostille may be required. If the country is not part of the convention, additional legalization from the relevant consulate or embassy may be necessary.