What You Need to Know
A statutory declaration is a legal document where you formally state that something is true — and you do it in writing, in front of an authorised official like a notary public or commissioner of oaths. Think of it like this: You’ve lost your birth certificate but need to renew your passport. You don’t have the original, but you can still make a legal declaration that confirms your identity and situation. That’s when a statutory declaration steps in — simple, serious, and backed by law. These declarations are often used when you don’t have supporting documents, but still need to confirm something for legal or official purposes.
When Would You Use a Statutory Declaration?
Everyday Canadians use statutory declarations more often than you might think. Here are some real examples:
- You’ve moved provinces and need to prove your new address for a health card application.
- You’re sponsoring a partner through immigration and need to prove you’ve been living together as common-law.
- You’re a student applying for OSAP, and your parent has to confirm their income, but their documents are delayed.
- You’re filing for insurance and need to confirm a loss or prior condition with no written evidence.
- You’re changing your name and need to declare your identity when old documents don’t match up.
If it sounds serious, it is. But it’s also manageable — and we’ll walk you through every step.
How It Works (Step-by-Step)
Getting a statutory declaration isn’t complicated. Here’s how you can do it right the first time:
- Fill out your declaration
You can write your own or use a ready-made legal template. Just make sure it’s clear, factual, and written in the first person. - Book an appointment with a notary or commissioner You’ll need to sign the declaration in their presence — they can’t accept one you’ve already signed.
- Show valid IDTo protect your rights (and your reputation), we’ll always verify your identity before witnessing any document.
- Sign the declaration You’ll do this in front of us — not before. Once signed, we’ll add our official seal and signature to make it legally valid.
- Use the declaration wherever it’s required
Submit it to the government, a business, or an institution — depending on what you need it for.
✅ You can do all of this online or in person, whichever works best for you.
Statutory Declaration of Common-Law Union
One of the most requested types is the Statutory Declaration of Common-Law Union, especially when applying to sponsor a partner through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
This form (IMM 5409) confirms that you and your partner have been living together in a conjugal relationship for at least one year. You’ll both need to provide:
- Full legal names and birthdates
- Length of time living together
- Evidence of shared finances, lease, or property
It’s straightforward — and we’ve helped thousands complete it correctly.
👉 Download IMM 5409 (Statutory Declaration of Common-Law Union)
Why It Has to Be Done Right
A statutory declaration might look like just another piece of paper, but it carries weight — and legal consequences. Making a false declaration is the same as lying under oath. You could be charged with perjury or fraud.
That’s why it’s critical to:
- Use the right wording and format
- Sign it in front of a verified notary or commissioner
- Double-check for errors, omissions, or outdated info
We don’t just witness signatures. We guide you through the process with clarity and care — no legal jargon, no guesswork, just straight answers and solid support.
Statutory Declaration vs. Affidavit: What’s the Difference?
It’s easy to confuse the two. Here’s how to tell which one you need:
- A statutory declaration is used for general legal or government purposes.
- An affidavit is used for court cases or legal proceedings.
Both are sworn statements, both are signed in front of an official — but if your document is being used in court, it’s almost always an affidavit.
👉 Need an affidavit instead? Click here to view our Affidavit Services.
Statutory Declaration Templates
Below is a list of affidavit forms available for download. Each one is designed for a specific legal or personal situation. Simply choose the form that fits your needs, and we’ll help you get it signed and notarised.
| Title | |
|---|---|
|
Declaration of Progress Payment Distribution by Contractor 9A |
Who Needs CCDC 9A – 2018: Statutory Declaration of Progress Payment Distribution by Contractor? This form is for contractors working on construction projects in Canada who are requesting payment from the project owner. If you’re a contractor asking for a progress payment—a payment for work completed to date—you must submit this declaration to confirm you’ve ... Read moreDeclaration of Progress Payment Distribution by Contractor 9A
|
|
Statutory Declaration for the Reinstatement of LSO License Status |
Who Needs the Statutory Declaration for the Reinstatement of LSO Licence Status? This form is required by lawyers and paralegals in Ontario who are applying to have their licence reinstated by the Law Society of Ontario (LSO). It must be completed by the applicant to confirm that all information provided in the application is true, ... Read moreStatutory Declaration for the Reinstatement of LSO License Status
|
Download the forms
Head to our site and download the Last Will and Power of Attorney templates or bring your own if you’ve already prepared them.
Book an appointment
Use our directory to find a trusted public notary near you. Pick a convenient date and time that works best for your schedule.
Print Your Documents
Make sure all pages are printed clearly and completely — double-sided printing is fine if everything’s visible.
Bring Your Checklist
Details matter but don’t stress — we’ve laid out everything you’ll need to bring with you in a simple checklist below.
Appointment Checklist
For best results, your guest should also include:
- A copy of your passport or PR card
- Proof of income (like a T4 or pay stub)
- A letter from your employer (optional)
- Proof of relationship (e.g., family photo, birth certificate)
We can help you pull everything together into a clear and professional application package.
