Un traducteur agréé certifie la fidélité de la traduction.
1. Why an 'official' translation, not just any translation
For many steps in Quebec and Canada — immigration, diploma recognition, school registration, marriage — you'll be asked to provide your documents in French or English. But beware: a translation done by you or a friend is generally not accepted. An official translation is required, done by a certified translator who certifies the translation faithfully matches the original. This guide explains when you need one and how to find one.
2. The certified translator and OTTIAQ
In Quebec, the title of certified translator is governed by a professional order: OTTIAQ (Ordre des traducteurs, terminologues et interprètes agréés du Québec). A certified translator can produce a certified translation, recognized by authorities, with their seal or declaration attesting faithfulness to the original document. That seal is what gives the translation official value. You find a certified translator directly in OTTIAQ's public directory, filtering by language and field.
3. Which documents, for which steps
An official translation is often required for: civil-status records like birth, marriage or divorce certificates; diplomas and transcripts; driver's licences for an exchange; court or notarized documents. The exact requirements depend on the body receiving the document — IRCC, Quebec's immigration ministry, a professional order, a school service centre. Always check with the relevant body whether a certified translation is required, and whether the original or a certified copy must accompany the translation.
4. Frequently asked questions
Here are the most common questions about official translation: how much it costs, can you translate it yourself, and what to do if the translation comes from abroad.
Can I translate my documents myself?
Generally no, when an official/certified translation is required — the point is an independent, accredited translator certifying accuracy. A self-translation or a friend's is usually rejected. If the body accepts a simple translation, it may still ask for a signed declaration; confirm the exact rule before spending money or time.
How much does a certified translation cost?
It varies a lot by document length, language pair and translator, so there's no single price. Ask two or three certified translators from the OTTIAQ directory for a quote, and confirm the turnaround time. Don't choose on price alone — a rejected translation is the most expensive kind.
What if my translation comes from abroad?
Some bodies accept translations done abroad if they meet certain conditions; others want a translation recognized in Canada. Sometimes you'll also need the original document authenticated (an apostille). Check the receiving body's exact requirements before relying on a foreign translation — see our guide on authenticating documents.
5. Official sources
To find a certified translator and check requirements, see: OTTIAQ's public directory. And the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada page on document translation requirements.
6. See also
These related guides may be useful:
- Authenticating or apostilling a document — when the original also needs certification.
- Foreign-credential recognition — getting diplomas recognized.
- Canadian citizenship application — a step that often needs translations.
Author's Note: before paying for a translation, ask the body receiving the document one question: do you require a certified translation, and from whom? The answer saves you time and money, and spares you the worst case — a whole application rejected over a poorly translated paper.
