Certified Translation Requirements for Canada: IRCC, ECA, and University Submissions
Canada applies a consistent and practical standard to certified translations used for immigration, credential evaluation, and academic purposes. These standards are frequently misunderstood because they differ from both U.S. notarization practices and European sworn translation systems.
This document outlines how certified translations are defined and accepted in Canada in 2026.
Definition of a certified translation in Canada
In Canada, a certified translation is defined by accuracy and certification, not by notarization or the geographic location of the translator.
A certified translation must meet all of the following conditions:
• the translation is complete and accurate
• all stamps, seals, handwritten notes, and marginal text are translated
• a signed statement of translation accuracy is included
• the translator or translation company is clearly identified
Canada does not maintain a single national licensing or registry system for translators used in immigration or academic applications. Authorities assess compliance based on format and certification, not on professional affiliation or residence.
IRCC certified translation requirements
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada requires certified translations for all documents that are not issued in English or French.
IRCC requirements include:
• a full translation of the entire document
• a signed certification statement confirming accuracy
• consistency between the original document and the translated version
Notarization is not a general requirement for IRCC submissions. Notarization only verifies the identity of a signer and does not confirm translation accuracy unless explicitly requested by IRCC in a specific case.
Canadian immigration authorities accept certified translations prepared outside Canada, including those completed in the United States, provided the certification requirements are met. A detailed breakdown of certified translation requirements for Canada used for IRCC applications is outlined by services that specialize in Canadian immigration documentation.
Credential evaluation and ECA translations
Certified translations are required for Educational Credential Assessment used for immigration, education, and professional recognition in Canada.
Common evaluation authorities include:
• World Education Services
• International Qualifications Assessment Service
For ECA purposes, evaluation agencies require:
• certified translations of diplomas and transcripts
• certification statements confirming accuracy and completeness
• consistent formatting across all academic documents
The location of the translator is not a determining factor. Evaluation agencies prioritize accuracy and certification compliance over jurisdiction or licensing.
University and academic use in Canada
Canadian universities and colleges apply translation standards consistent with IRCC and ECA requirements.
Certified translations are required for:
• diplomas and degree certificates
• academic transcripts
• enrollment and graduation letters
Universities assess whether the translation accurately reflects the original document and includes a proper certification statement. Translations completed outside Canada are routinely accepted when these conditions are met.
Distinction between certified and notarized translations
Certified translation and notarized translation are not interchangeable in Canada.
Certified translation confirms the accuracy and completeness of the translated content.
Notarized translation confirms the identity of a signer and does not validate translation accuracy.
For most Canadian immigration, education, and credential evaluation cases, certification is required while notarization is not.
Common reasons translations are rejected or delayed
Canadian authorities most frequently delay or reject applications due to the following issues:
• partial translations
• missing certification statements
• untranslated stamps or handwritten content
• incorrect assumptions regarding notarization
• use of general translators unfamiliar with Canadian requirements
These issues typically result in requests for resubmission rather than outright refusal but can significantly delay processing.
Acceptance of translations prepared outside Canada
Canada accepts certified translations prepared outside its borders when they meet official requirements.
The determining factor is compliance with Canadian standards, not the country in which the translation was produced. Applicants regularly submit certified translations completed in the United States and other jurisdictions without issue when certification requirements are properly followed.