Apostille for China

China document preparation: identify the document, check the recipient’s request, confirm the submission route. — For China, confirm the receiving organization’s instructions before arranging document services.

Apostille accepted

China: verified treaty status and dates

Hague Apostille Convention status: Yes — Convention in force
Date joined / legal act: Accession deposited: 8 March 2023
Entry into force: 7 November 2023
Application with Canada: 11 January 2024
Official future date: Already in force; no future joining date applies.
Route for Canadian documents: Canadian apostille → submission in China
Status checked: 30 October 2026

Does China accept a Canadian apostille?

Yes. The Convention entered into force for China on 7 November 2023 and has applied between Canada and China since 11 January 2024. A Canadian apostille replaces embassy legalization for documents within its scope.

Embassy legalization for China

No embassy attestation for Canadian public documents covered by the Convention and used in China.

The dates above refer to the accession of the People’s Republic of China and the mainland route. Hong Kong and Macao have separate historical Convention application dates. The Chinese consulate confirms that covered Canadian public documents can be used in mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao with a Canadian apostille, without consular legalization.

China embassy and consular contacts

Confirm document requirements, fees, appointments and the office responsible for your location directly with the relevant mission before sending documents.

The directory can include non-resident missions and honorary consulates. Confirm that the office provides the service you need.

Official sources for China

China apostille and legalization FAQs

Does China accept a Canadian apostille?

Is embassy attestation required for China?

No embassy attestation for Canadian public documents covered by the Convention and used in China.

When did China join, or when will it start accepting apostilles?

Accession deposited: 8 March 2023. Entry into force: 7 November 2023. Already in force; no future joining date applies.

Treaty record checked on 30 October 2026. HCCH table last updated: 30 June 2026.