If you’re applying for Canadian immigration or citizenship, chances are you’ve been asked to submit a certified translation of your birth certificate—especially if it was issued in a language other than English or French. But what does that actually mean, and how can you make sure your translation meets IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) requirements?
Here’s everything you need to know to avoid delays or rejected documents.
Why Does IRCC Require a Certified Translation?
Canada has two official languages: English and French. If your documents (like birth certificates, marriage certificates, diplomas, or police records) are in another language—such as Spanish or Portuguese—you’ll need to provide:
- A complete and accurate certified translation of the document
- A clear copy of the original document in its original language
📌 The translation must be done by a certified translator who is a member in good standing of a provincial or territorial regulatory body—like ATIO or OTTIAQ.
What Is a Certified Translation?
A certified translation is one that:
- Is completed by a certified translator (not just a bilingual person)
- Includes a signed statement or seal confirming the translator’s credentials and that the translation is accurate
- Is accepted by Canadian immigration authorities, universities, and courts
At Loretta Murphy Translations, I provide certified translations accepted by IRCC and most Canadian institutions. I'm a certified member of ATIO (among other CTTIC affiliates) and OTTIAQ. I have over 25 years of experience.
What Documents Do You Need?
To translate your birth certificate, you’ll need to send:
- A clear scan or photo of the original document (front and back if applicable)
- The full name and contact info you want included on the translation (especially if spelling differs from the original)
If you're applying with family members, each person’s document must be translated separately.
How Long Does It Take?
Turnaround time depends on:
- Language pair (e.g., Spanish-English, Portuguese-English, French-English)
- Document complexity and legibility
In most cases, I offer 1–3 business day delivery for standard birth certificates. Rush service is available!
What Does It Cost?
Certified translations are priced per word or per document, depending on the type. Birth certificates usually fall into a fixed-rate category—typically between $50 and $90, depending on the language and format.
You’ll receive a digital copy and, if required, a hard copy by mail.
How to Make Sure Your Translation Will Be Accepted
- ✔️ Work with a certified translator in Canada
- ✔️ Ensure the translator includes their stamp/seal, signature, and certification number
- ✔️ Never use machine translation or uncertified services
- ✔️ Submit both the original document AND the certified translation
Ready to Get Started?
I offer fast, professional certified translations in:
- Spanish to English
- Portuguese to English
- French to English
Whether you’re applying for a visa, study permit, PR, or citizenship, I can help make sure your documents are translated accurately and accepted the first time.
👉 Contact me for a free quote or to upload your documents.
About the Author
Loretta Murphy is a certified translator and CTTIC exam marker with over 25 years of experience translating official documents for immigration, education, and legal use. She offers certified translations in Spanish, Portuguese, French, and English through Loretta Murphy Translations.