| Document and Entity Information | Mar. 01, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Mar. 1, 2021 |
| Entity Registrant Name | NOVANTA INC. |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001076930 |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity File Number | 001-35083 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | A3 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 98-0110412 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 125 Middlesex Turnpike |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Bedford |
| Entity Address, State or Province | MA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 01730 |
| City Area Code | 781 |
| Local Phone Number | 266-5700 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common shares, no par value |
| Trading Symbol | NOVT |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
