Can a Notary Work Remotely in Quebec?
We live in a world where almost everything can be done online: buying a home, signing a lease, sending money transfers…
But what about a notarial deed? Can you sign that from your living room?
The short answer:
It depends.
The long answer is below
What exactly does a notary do?
A notary doesn’t just stamp papers. They play a legal and preventive role:
- They verify your identity
- Ensure you understand what you're signing
- Confirm everything complies with the law
- Record the deed in an official register
That’s why both the form of the signature and your physical presence are strictly regulated by law.
Two Types of Deeds: Private Deeds vs Notarial Deeds in Minute Form
|
Type of Deed |
Can it be signed remotely? |
Examples |
|
Private Deed |
Yes, often by e-signature |
Offer to purchase, mandate, lease, etc. |
|
Notarial Deed in Minute |
No, physical presence required |
Property sale, notarized will, mortgage |
Notarial deeds “in minute” carry the highest evidentiary weight. That’s why Quebec law requires an in-person signing.
Why isn’t videoconferencing enough?
Some jurisdictions (like Ontario or British Columbia) allow notaries to sign deeds via secure platforms.
But in Quebec, that’s not yet permitted.
The Chambre des notaires du Québec still requires:
- Signature to be witnessed in person
- Use of a physical seal
- Retention of the “minute” in the notary’s official archives
This ensures the integrity and long-term validity of the deed.
So… what can you do remotely?
While the final signing must happen at the notary’s office, you can handle most of the process online:
- Fill out your intake forms
- Upload required documents
- Have a preparatory phone or video call
- Get a clear quote
- Ask all your questions
Where does Notairo come in?
With Notairo, you can:
- Start your file 100% online
- Be matched with a notary near you
- Book your appointment quickly
- Prepare everything in advance, remotely
The only in-person step?
The final signature — in accordance with Quebec law.
TL;DR
|
Question |
Answer |
|
Can I sign a notarial deed remotely in Quebec? |
No, in-person presence is required |
|
Can I prepare everything else remotely? |
Yes, almost everything except signing |
|
Will the law change in the future? |
Possibly — studies are underway |
|
Can I have a Zoom call with my notary? |
Yes — just not for the final signature |
Ready to get started online?
With Notairo, you save time, reduce stress, and gain clarity.
