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: you may not translate your own documents, and neither a family member nor your representative or consultant — even one who is a lawyer, notary or translator — may do it for you (IRCC). A friend who is neither can: they must then attach an affidavit and a certified photocopy of the original. The simplest route remains a translation 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 produces a certified translation, recognized by authorities, with their seal attesting faithfulness to the original document. That seal is what gives the translation official value. You find a certified translator in OTTIAQ's public directory, filtering by language and field. The certified translation is usually delivered attached to a copy of the original document, with a declaration and the translator's seal; ask how many paper copies you'll receive, as some bodies require several.
3. Which documents, for which steps
An official translation is often required for:
- civil-status records (birth, marriage or divorce certificates);
- diplomas and transcripts;
- driver's licences for an exchange — only if the licence is in neither French nor English, and note that an international driving permit does NOT count as an official translation;
- court or notarized documents.
The exact requirements depend on the body receiving the document. Always check with the relevant body whether a certified translation is required, and whether the original or a certified copy must accompany the translation.
| Document type | Certified translation required? | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Birth certificate | Yes (for official steps) | OTTIAQ-certified translator recommended |
| Diplomas and transcripts | Yes (for equivalency or employment) | Some employers accept a certified translation |
| Divorce judgment | Yes | Legal document — certified translator (in Quebec the reserved title is traducteur agréé; there is no such thing as a “sworn translator”) |
| Passport (translated pages) | Sometimes | Depends on the application |
| Private contracts | No (everyday use) | Unless required by contract |
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. You may not translate it yourself, and a family member, representative or consultant may not either. A friend who is none of those may, with an affidavit attached. 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.
How long does it take to get a certified translation?
The turnaround depends on the document length, the language pair and the translator's workload. For a deadline-bound step — an immigration file, a school registration — ask for the timeline at the first quote and leave a margin. Don't leave the translation to the last minute: it's often the step that delays the whole file.
5. 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.
6. Official sources
To find a certified translator and check requirements, see:
- Member directory — OTTIAQ
- Document translation requirements — Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
- The specific body receiving your document (ministry, professional order, school service centre)
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.