---
title: "Does a Marriage Contract Have to Be Notarized in Quebec? ✦ Goldwater Droit"
canonical_url: "https://goldwaterdroit.com/en/faqs/does-a-marriage-contract-have-to-be-notarized-quebec"
last_updated: "2026-09-15T20:46:37.213Z"
locale: en
meta:
  description: "Yes. In Quebec a marriage contract must be made by notarial act before a notary under art. 440 C.c.Q. Here's why the formality matters."
  "og:description": "Yes. In Quebec a marriage contract must be made by notarial act before a notary under art. 440 C.c.Q. Here's why the formality matters."
  "og:title": "Does a Marriage Contract Have to Be Notarized in Quebec?"
---

# Does a marriage contract have to be notarized in Quebec?

Yes. In Québec, a marriage contract must be made by notarial act en minute—that is, before a notary—under article 440 of the Civil Code of Québec. It is not a private document you simply sign at home, and the notarial formality is part of what makes the contract valid and effective in setting or changing your matrimonial regime. The same requirement applies to a civil union contract. Because the notary also advises on and records the contract, and because a marriage contract cannot override the mandatory family patrimony, it is worth obtaining proper advice about what the contract can and cannot achieve before signing. Changes to an existing marriage contract during the marriage must likewise be made by notarial act.

Civil Code of Québec, art. 440 (marriage contract by notarial act en minute)