IRCC Translation Requirements Made Simple

Rapid Translate Team

Updated: September 15, 2024 | 6 min read

A crucial step in immigrating to Canada is supporting the application with documents. However, whoever handles the application will need to understand every information written on the documents. This is why IRCC translation requirements mandate an official translation of the original document in foreign languages. The immigration application is never complete without all the required supportive documents like birth certificates.

But, if they are in a language other than French or English, it may cause complications. We understand many immigrants don’t understand that translations are essential. This blog explains the translation requirements IRCC mandates to make the process easier.

The Canadian flag is waving high in the wind during the daytime.
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What Are the IRCC Translation Requirements? 

As mentioned, every applicant must meet the requirements of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for a successful application. Without the required documents, the agency may have to reject it. However, translating these documents is the major quality that makes them worthwhile. Naturally, the applicant will need an official translation if their home country speaks languages other than English or French.

The Canadian agency wants to see these papers in their official languages. The applicant must provide a complete certified translation of the original document. Accompanying this is the original document in the foreign language or a certified copy of this document. If the person submits a certified copy, the translator must stamp both this copy and the translation.

This means both documents must have the same seals, stamp, and logo. Fortunately, you can submit the documents even if you complete the application in either language. For instance, you can submit your supporting documents in English if you complete the application in French and vice versa. More than this, the translated paper must be a word-for-word translation of the source document. The translator must also prepare it from the original document or its photocopy.

A summary or abstract translation is unacceptable. Similarly, translations from transcribed versions of the document are unacceptable. In addition, a certified translator must translate the documents. An affidavit must accompany the documents if a certified translator can’t do the translations. 

Finally, the translated document must include the translator’s signature or that of a translation service representative.

Who Is an IRCC Certified Translator?

An IRCC-certified translator is a well-regarded member of a professional translation association in Canada or abroad. Professional translators based in Canada will belong to a provincial or territorial organization. These translators will have a stamp or seal that shows their professional designation as certified translators. Members of these associations can provide a certified English or French translation that meets all the requirements.

Sometimes, translators may be in the process of receiving accreditation or certification from the professional body. This doesn’t make them less of a translator, but they do not meet the translation requirements IRCC needs. The agency will only accept certified translations from recognized members. Also, translators outside Canada must have an official accreditation or authorization in the country where they translate the documents.

They must also translate stamps and seals that are not in English or French. Note that it is unacceptable for the applicants, their family members, and representatives to translate documents. This includes family members who may be lawyers, translators, or notaries. The IRCC will consider it self-serving and reject the application even if they are certified translators.

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What Is an Affidavit for IRCC Certified Translation?

Sometimes, you may not have a certified translator to transcribe the documents. You shouldn’t worry; a regular translator can do it. However, you must submit an affidavit with your supporting documents. An affidavit is an official document that states the translated copy is an accurate version of the original text. The affidavit is essential for the supporting documents to pass for IRCC-certified translation.

During the document translation, the translator must prepare the supporting affidavit. Immigration document translation is a meticulous process. Therefore, they must swear the translation’s accuracy before a commissioner authorized to administer oaths in their resident country. The commissioner must be proficient in French or English to administer the oath.

In Canada, people who can take affidavits include a notary public, commissioner of oaths, and commissioner of taking affidavits. A notary public or its equivalent can take affidavits outside Canada. Every country has different rules regarding authorized people who can issue affidavits. Notwithstanding, the affidavit must make the documents meet the translation requirements IRCC mandates.

How Much Is Certified Translation for IRCC?

The cost of certified translations for IRCC depends on several factors. These factors include the language pair involved, the length and complexity of the document, and the required turnaround time. Each factor will make the cost of translation vary according to the translators or agency involved. Some agencies charge per word or page, while others charge a fixed fee per document.

Whichever way, it is best to get a quote from the translation service for accurate estimation. Knowing how much it costs to translate a document is essential. This information allows you to know if you need to pay an additional cost for services. Notwithstanding, the translation costs are always affordable.

A maroon mug has “Canada” written on it and a maple leaf behind the country’s name.
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Does Rapid Translate Offer Certified Translations for IRCC?

Yes, Rapid Translate can easily translate documents for immigration, including those for IRCC. Our professional translators can translate documents from various languages into English and French. We also offer translations in over 60 other official languages. The online translation process is fast, straightforward, and affordable. 

Simply upload your documents and get certified translations within a short period. Rapid Translate’s turnaround time is 24 hours or less for one to three pages of documents.

We also have a quick turnaround time for higher values. Don’t worry about the credibility of the translation; professional and certified translators handle the process. There is also a notary public on staff to notarize required documents. We meticulously translate your birth certificates, marriage certificates, and other Canadian citizenship legal documents to meet IRCC translation requirements.

Rapid Translate helps people to take their global communication to a higher level. This agency offers services to people willing to study abroad, extend their business internationally, or interact with different cultures. We can help you break down language barriers and connect with a new world using our accurate translations. Order now!

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