How to Get Your Foreign Documents Translated and Certified for Immigration Purposes
06 Nov 2025
When immigrating to Canada, submitting accurate, properly translated documents is one of the most important steps in your application. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has strict requirements for translations, and failing to follow them can lead to costly delays or outright rejection.
At Document Translation Services (DTS), we've been helping individuals successfully navigate IRCC's requirements for over a decade. This guide explains everything you need to know about foreign document translation for Canada immigration including which documents require certified translation, how to find a qualified translator, and what certification standards you must meet.
Understanding IRCC's Certified Translation Requirement
IRCC requires that any document not written in English or French must be accompanied by:
- A certified translation into English or French, and
- A copy of the original document, and
- If necessary, an affidavit from the translator confirming the translation's accuracy
These rules ensure that immigration officers can review and verify your documents without confusion or misinterpretation. All translations must be done by certified document translators or recognized professionals who can attest to the authenticity and accuracy of their work.
Submitting an application to IRCC can be stressful but translation shouldn't be. With our expertise in immigration documentation, we guarantee our work meets IRCC's official requirements.
What Is a Certified Translation?
A certified translation is an official translation completed by a professional translator who is recognized by a governing body. According to IRCC, a certified translator is a member in good standing with a professional translation association in Canada or abroad. Their certification can be confirmed by a seal or stamp that includes their membership number.
In Canada, this means the translator must be certified by:
- Association of Translators and Interpreters of Ontario (ATIO)
- Association of Translators and Interpreters of Alberta (ATIA)
- Association of Translators and Interpreters of Saskatchewan (ATIS)
- Association of Translators and Interpreters of Manitoba (ATIM)
- Ordre des traducteurs, terminologues et interprètes agréés du Québec (OTTIAQ)
In Canada, the title "Certified Translator" is a protected designation, reserved for professionals who meet the certification requirements of their provincial translation association. These associations are part of a national network represented by CTTIC, which promotes excellence and professionalism across the country. Certified members must follow a strict Code of Ethics that ensures accountability, quality, and integrity in every translation.
If your translation is completed outside Canada
The translator must be officially certified in their home country and include a signed declaration confirming the translation's accuracy.
Each certified translation must include:
- The translator's name, signature, and seal or stamp
- The translator's membership number or certification ID
- A statement confirming that the translation is a true and accurate version of the original document
At DTS, our certified translations include the translator's signature, stamp, contact details, and certification number on official letterhead exactly what IRCC requires.
When Is an Affidavit Required?
If your translation is completed by someone who is not a certified translator, IRCC may require an affidavit. This affidavit is a sworn statement made before a notary public, commissioner of oaths, or commissioner for taking affidavits.
The affidavit should confirm that the translator is fluent in both languages and that the translation accurately represents the original document. However, using certified translation services is strongly recommended because affidavits are accepted only in limited cases, and uncertified translations may increase your risk of rejection.
Which Documents Require Certified Translation?
Nearly all supporting documents for immigration applications must be in English or French. If your originals are in another language, you need certified translations for:
- Birth certificates
- Marriage or divorce certificates
- Police clearance certificates
- Educational diplomas and transcripts
- Employment reference letters
- Bank statements and proof of income
- Passports, identity cards, or driver's licenses
- Legal documents such as judgments or affidavits
- Medical and vaccination records
Birth and marriage certificates are among the most commonly requested documents for immigration, and we translate thousands of them every year. We also handle over 100 different types of official documents.
When in doubt, translate every supporting document that contains relevant information for your immigration or visa process. Every detail including stamps, seals, and handwritten notes must be translated.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Certified Translations for IRCC
Step 1: Identify the Documents That Need Translation
Review your IRCC document checklist and identify all documents not written in English or French. Make photocopies of the originals to accompany your translations.
Step 2: Choose a Certified Translation Agency
Search for a certified translation agency or document translation service that specializes in immigration. Choose an agency that is familiar with IRCC translation requirements and employs certified translators.
Look for:
- Translators accredited by ATIO, ATIA, ATIS, ATIM, OTTIAQ, or another recognized association
- Experience handling immigration-related documents
- Transparent pricing and delivery timelines
- 100% acceptance guarantee by IRCC
At DTS, we specialize in IRCC applications and guarantee our translations will be accepted. Work with our certified translators to receive accurate, professional translations recognized and accepted by all levels of government, including IRCC.
Step 3: Submit Your Documents
Provide clear, legible copies of your original documents. Do not send originals unless requested. Simply upload your document on our website or email it to us there's no need to send the original by mail.
The translator will review them and prepare the certified translation according to IRCC standards.
Step 4: Request Certification and Sealing
Ensure your translation includes:
- A certification statement confirming accuracy
- The translator's seal, signature, and membership number
- The date of translation
If your translator is not certified, you must include an affidavit sworn before a notary public confirming the translation's accuracy.
Step 5: Include Both Versions in Your Application
IRCC requires that both the translated version and the copy of the original document be submitted together. Make sure all pages, including stamps, seals, and notations, are visible and properly translated.
How to Choose the Right Certified Translator
Finding a reliable certified translation company or translator can make your immigration process smoother. Here are key points to consider:
Certification Status
Verify that the translator is officially certified in Canada or their home country.
Specialization
Choose translators with experience in legal, academic, or immigration document translation.
Turnaround Time
Confirm how long the translation will take and plan ahead to meet IRCC deadlines. Most translations are delivered within 24-72 hours depending on document complexity.
Confidentiality
Your personal documents should be handled securely and confidentially. We follow strict data protection policies to keep your documents secure.
Affidavit Assistance
Some agencies can provide notarized affidavits if needed.
Acceptance Guarantee
Choose a service that guarantees acceptance by IRCC and other authorities.
With over 98,000 translated documents and clients in 74 countries, DTS has the experience and expertise to handle your immigration translation needs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Submitting machine-generated translations
Tools like Google Translate are not accepted for official purposes.
Using friends or family members as translators
IRCC explicitly states that translations must not be done by the applicants themselves, members of the applicant's family, or the applicant's representatives or consultants.
Missing translator seals, signatures, or certification statements
Every translation must include proper certification details.
Failing to attach the original document copy with the translation
IRCC requires both versions to be submitted together.
Translating only part of a document
Every word, stamp, and note must be included in the translation.
Avoiding these errors will save you time, money, and stress during your immigration process. Let us take care of the translation so you can focus on everything else that matters in your application.
Benefits of Using Certified Translation Services
Working with professional translation agencies offers multiple advantages:
Guaranteed compliance with IRCC's translation requirements
Our certified translation services are guaranteed to be accepted for official use in Canada, including by IRCC.
Experienced certified document translators
Our translators are familiar with immigration documents and understand the specific terminology and formatting requirements.
Translations accepted by multiple authorities
Recognized and accepted by IRCC, USCIS, UK Visas and Immigration, Australian Immigration, New Zealand Immigration, universities, courts, banks, and all levels of government.
Fast turnaround and clear pricing
No fuss, no stress, just a smooth and hassle-free experience from start to finish.
Optional affidavit and notarization support
We can provide additional services as needed for your specific requirements.
Multilingual support
We offer translation services in over 110 languages, including Arabic, Dutch, French, German, Greek, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Spanish, Thai, Turkish, Indonesian, and many more.
Professional credentials
We're recognized by leading professional associations and follow a strict Code of Ethics rooted in integrity, professionalism, accountability, and fairness.
Official Translation Services
An official translation is a professionally translated document that has been certified as a true and accurate representation of the original. There are four main types of official translations, and the type required depends on the country or the specific requirements of the recipient:
- Certified Translation: Includes a signed certificate verifying accuracy
- Notarized Translation: Certified translation plus notarization of the translator's signature
- Legalized Translation: Additional authentication for international use
- Sworn Translation: Completed by a translator authorized by a government
At DTS, we offer all four types depending on your specific requirements.
Quick Checklist for IRCC Translation
Before submitting your immigration application, confirm the following:
- The translator is certified in Canada or their home country
- The translation includes the translator's seal, signature, and certification statement
- A copy of the original document is attached
- An affidavit is included (if the translator is not certified)
- All pages, stamps, and notes are fully translated
Sample Translations
To see the quality and precision you can expect from our document translation services, visit our website to view sample translations of various document types, including:
- Birth certificates
- Marriage certificates
- Diplomas and degree certificates
- Police certificates
- Divorce decrees
- Death certificates
- Legal documents
- Academic transcripts
- Bank statements
- Passports
We Make Translation Easy
No fuss, no stress, just a smooth and hassle-free experience from start to finish. Our certified translation services are guaranteed to be accepted for official use in Canada, including by IRCC.
Conclusion
Getting your foreign documents translated and certified for Canadian immigration is a critical step that requires precision and professionalism. By following IRCC's official translation requirements and working with qualified certified translators, you ensure that your application will be processed smoothly.
At Document Translation Services, translation is not just our name it's our expertise. With a team of experienced, certified translators and a strong commitment to industry best practices, we guarantee that every translation we deliver meets official requirements and is accepted no matter where your documents are submitted.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I translate my documents myself for IRCC?
No. IRCC does not accept self-translated documents. According to IRCC guidelines, translations must not be done by the applicants themselves, members of the applicant's family, or the applicant's representatives or consultants. You must use certified translation services or a professional translator accredited by a recognized association.
2. Can translations from outside Canada be accepted?
Yes, IRCC accepts translations done abroad, but the translator must be officially certified in their country and include proof of their credentials.
3. Do I need to notarize my translations?
Not necessarily. IRCC requires certified translations, not notarized ones, unless you use a non-certified translator in which case, you must include an affidavit.
4. What if my translation doesn't meet IRCC's standards?
Your application may be delayed or returned. Always verify that your translation meets IRCC's certification rules before submission.
5. How can I find certified translation services in Canada?
Choose a certified translation agency experienced in IRCC documentation. At DTS, we specialize in immigration applications and guarantee our translations will be accepted.
6. How long does it take to get a certified translation?
Most certified translation companies deliver translations within 24-72 hours, depending on length and complexity.