Japan is a Hague Apostille country (a contracting party since 1970). A single apostille from the correct Canadian authority is accepted in Japan — no embassy or consular legalization step. Because Canada joined without any objection, Canadian apostilles are accepted there.
| Destination status | Hague Apostille member (since 1970) |
| What you need | One apostille — no embassy legalization |
| Translation | A certified Japanese translation is often required. |
| Canadian authority | Set by where your document was issued or notarized |
How your document is routed in Canada
The Canadian authority depends on where your document was issued or notarized — not on where you live. See the document guides and the by-province overview for the exact authority, fee and timeline.
Most-requested documents for Japan include work, spouse visas and study. Common examples are RCMP checks, degrees and transcripts, and vital certificates — each with its own routing, which we confirm at pre-check.
Common questions
Does Japan accept Canadian apostilles?
Yes. Japan is a contracting party to the Hague Apostille Convention, and Canada's accession was accepted without objection, so a Canadian apostille is accepted in Japan with no embassy or consular legalization step.
Which authority apostilles my document?
The authority is decided by where the document was issued or notarized — Ontario, Québec, BC, Alberta and Saskatchewan have their own; federal documents and all other provinces go to Global Affairs Canada.
Do I need a translation?
A certified Japanese translation is often required.
Sending a document to Japan?
Upload a scan — we'll confirm the exact route, screen it for refusal risks, and send a fixed quote within one business day.
Free pre-check