Certified vs. Non-Certified Translation: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters in Canada

When submitting official documents to Canadian institutions — from immigration offices to universities — accuracy and credibility are everything. But not all translations are treated equally. In Canada, only certified translations are officially recognized by organizations such as Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Understanding the difference between certified and non-certified translation can save you both time and stress — and ensure your documents are accepted the first time.

What Is a Certified Translation in Canada?

A certified translation is a translation completed by a professional translator who is a certified member of a recognized provincial association such as:

• ATIA (Alberta Translators and Interpreters Association)
• OTTIAQ (Ordre des traducteurs, terminologues et interprètes agréés du Québec)
• STIBC (Society of Translators and Interpreters of British Columbia)
• or another provincial affiliate of the Canadian Translators, Terminologists and Interpreters Council (CTTIC).

A certified translation includes:

• The translator’s name, signature, and official seal
• A statement of accuracy, confirming that the translation is a true and complete rendering of the original document

This certification guarantees that your translation is accurate, reliable, and accepted by official institutions across Canada.

What Is a Non-Certified Translation?

A non-certified translation can be done by anyone fluent in two languages — including bilingual individuals, freelance translators, or even machine translation tools like Google Translate.

While non-certified translations may be acceptable for personal or internal use, they do not carry legal or official validity.

Most government offices, universities, and legal bodies in Canada will not accept non-certified translations for official purposes such as:

• Immigration applications
• University admissions
• Legal proceedings
• Professional licensing

Submitting a non-certified translation for these purposes may result in delays, rejections, or additional costs if you are asked to have it redone by a certified professional.

Why Choose a Certified Translator?
Working with a certified translator ensures that your documents meet Canadian standards and are accepted without issue.

Here are the key advantages:

✅ Official Acceptance: Certified translations are recognized by IRCC, universities, and other Canadian organizations.

✅ Accuracy & Accountability: Certified translators adhere to strict quality standards.

✅ Confidentiality: Your personal information remains secure under professional ethics.

✅ Peace of Mind: Avoids costly mistakes or delays in immigration or academic applications.

When it comes to official paperwork, a certified translation isn’t just a preference — it’s a requirement.

How to Verify a Translator’s Certification

Not sure if your translator is certified? It’s easy to verify.

Each provincial association — including ATIA in Alberta — maintains a public member directory on its website. You can search by name to confirm that your translator is an active certified member in good standing.

Always ask to see your translator’s certification number or official seal before submitting your documents.

How to Get Your Documents Professionally Translated

👉 Contact KITS today to get your certified English ↔ Farsi translations completed quickly and professionally.