How long does probate take in Ontario once the application is filed?

Applications are typically processed within 15 business days, but that is a general figure and not a promise. The real wait depends on whether the court office needs more from you and whether your application raises issues.

Much of the timing is in your hands before filing. You must serve the application on every beneficiary, including charities and contingent beneficiaries. You can file by email with the Superior Court of Justice, but original wills, codicils and administration bonds must still be filed on paper. Estate administration tax payments must be made in person or sent by mail or courier to the court office.

If the registrar asks for further information, the wait grows, and applications that raise issues must be referred to a judge. A refused application receives a Registrar's Notice (Form 74O) stating the reason, and missing documents can be supplied when court staff ask for them. An approved certificate is issued electronically and sent by email unless a paper certificate was requested. Afterward, an Estate Information Return must be filed with the Ministry of Finance within 180 calendar days after the certificate is issued, even if no tax is payable.