Guide · Certified translations
Canada and IRCC: certified translator, translation or affidavit?
Canadian requirements depend on the particular application. A German translator’s certification therefore does not automatically settle every submission requirement.
Reviewed on 27 October 2026
The short answer
IRCC generally requires English or French records unless instructed otherwise. Its general help page lists a translation, translator’s affidavit and certified copy. Individual application guides describe routes involving certified translators. Read the specific programme instructions and agree the required format before commissioning.
Start with your programme’s instructions
Save your procedure’s full name and translation instructions. Separate immigration applications, university admission and other uses; different recipients may request different formats.
The linked vulnerable-worker guidance illustrates requirements for certified translators and an affidavit alternative. It is a specific programme example, not a universal rule for Canadian procedures.
Read more: IRCC: translation instructions for vulnerable-worker permit applications
Separate the translation, affidavit and certified copy
A translation renders the document’s content. An affidavit can concern the translator’s declaration. A certified copy concerns the match between a copy and the source.
State which of these is expressly required and who may issue it. Do not assume a particular Canadian membership or authority to administer an oath without checking.
Read more: IRCC: language of supporting documents
Confirm the accepted format before ordering
Send the actual instructions and legible sources to discuss the available options. A free initial translation estimate does not itself confirm availability of a special credential or additional affidavit.
Before submission, compare the agreed set with your list. Check sources, translations and additional certifications separately so a formality is not left unresolved between several parties.
Your next steps
Record the IRCC programme and current guide.
Check language, translator status and additional evidence.
Discuss the available certification route in advance.
Submit the complete agreed set yourself.
More questions
Is a German certification stamp automatically sufficient for IRCC?
Check your programme instructions. The required qualification and additional format can differ from German practice.
Is a translated affidavit the same as a translator’s affidavit?
No. One is a translated source document; the other is a declaration about the translation work.
Can I choose English or French?
Check the language expressly accepted in your application guide and specify the chosen language direction.
Sources and further reading
- IRCC: language of supporting documents
- IRCC: translation instructions for vulnerable-worker permit applications
The receiving organisation’s current instructions matter for your assignment. Send them to us with your documents.
Clarify special requirements first
Discuss the actual IRCC requirement and an available issuing route with us before ordering special certification.
Confirm the issuing route and availability before ordering.