Certified Translation for Express Entry Applications


Daniel Osiomwanuri
This post is also available in: English /

Published: Mar 25, 2026


certified translation in canada

If you are applying for Canada Express Entry, you must submit a birth certificate, university transcripts, employment records and other documents to IRCC. However, if any of these documents is in a language other than English or French, you need to submit a certified translation with the original. These certified translation requirements are essential for document acceptance, as they help officers review your information without misinterpreting details.​

In this article, you will learn about which documents need translation, what 'certified' means under IRCC's rules, and how to get compliant translations completed. We will also introduce Translayte's certified translation services in Canada and how it can help you ensure your documents are accepted by IRCC.


Table of Contents

IRCC certified translations requirements for Express Entry

When submitting a certified translation through the IRCC for Express Entry and other immigration applications, they must meet three main requirements.

  • Certified translator: Use a certified translator or a professional translation company proficient in both the source language and English or French. The translation must be complete, accurate, and include all stamps, seals, and signatures.​

  • Certification statement or affidavit attached: The translation must be accompanied by the translator's signed declaration of accuracy. If the translator is not a member of a translation body in Canada, they must include a sworn affidavit attesting to the translation's accuracy.​

  • Submit a copy of the original document: IRCC requires you to include a copy of the original-language document alongside the certified translation.​

Note: IRCC recommends using a translator affiliated with CTTIC. When your application involves a regional body, you might have to use a certified translator recognised in that region. For example, you need an ATIO-certified translator for the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). Translayte provides certified translation from ATIO, OTTIAQ and other CTTIC-affiliated associations in Canada. We also provide affidavit-based translation services in Canada for Express Entry, helping you meet the authorities' requirements. Request a free quote to get accurate pricing.

​Which documents need to be translated for Express Entry?

When applying for Express Entry in Canada, personal, educational, identity, and medical documents that are not in English or French require a certified translation.

Note: Applicants and family members cannot translate their own documents. Use a professional translator or translation company and ensure all documents are valid. Translayte delivers certified translations for Express Entry in 12-24 hours. Request a free quote.​

How to get a certified translation for Express Entry

To get a certified translation for Express Entry, you must use a professional translator or translation company to translate non-English/French documents. Here are the steps to follow

  • ​Identify all non-English or French documents: Review your entire application checklist and mark every document that is not already in English or French.​

  • Gather clear scans or copies: Ensure the scanned documents are legible, complete, and unobstructed. If a document is worn or faded, a notarised copy from the issuing authority may be needed first.​

  • Upload your documents: Upload a clear scan through the online portal. Include any information, pay fees and submit your documents.​

  • A certified translator is assigned: A certified translator with required experience and accreditation is assigned to translate your document. If you require OINP-compliant translations, an ATIO-certified translator will be assigned automatically.​

  • Receive your certified translation: Your translation will be delivered within 12 - 24 hours. You'll receive a PDF translation with the certification statement attached.

Note: Translayte certified translation is delivered in 12-24 hours in PDF format via email. We also deliver physical copies of your translation via courier on request. Upload your documents to get started.​

ATIO certified translation vs standard certified translation: which do you need?

The standard certified translation is accepted for most IRCC Express Entry streams, including the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). The certification statement or affidavit from a professional translator meets IRCC translation requirements without the need for an individual membership seal.​

However, if you are applying through the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) or any other Ontario-based stream, you must provide a certified translation by an ATIO-certified translator. The ATIO-compliant translation will include the translator's membership number, personal seal, and certification statement. You can verify any ATIO member's credentials through the ATIO Member Verification Directory.

Note: Translayte provides both standard and ATIO-compliant translation for Express Entry. If you're unsure which applies to your situation, you should confirm with the receiving authority before placing your order. You can also include notes in your order to help us assign your translation to the right translator.​

Common mistakes to avoid when submitting translations

  • ​Using Google Translate or any machine translation tool will result in rejection. The IRCC only accepts certified translations done by a professional human translator with the relevant certifications.

  • Do not ask a bilingual friend or family member to translate your documents.

  • Submitting only the translation without including a copy of the original-language source document.

  • Using an uncertified translator without the required certification, such as ATIO credentials, is not accepted. Always confirm the translator's credentials in the regional directory or IRCC certified translator list.

  • Avoid invalid or poorly scanned documents. Make sure employment reference letters, transcripts, and police certificates are valid, clear, and undamaged.

How much does a certified translation cost for Express Entry?

The cost of translation services for Express Entry documents ranges from $24 - $60 per page. Final costs depend on document length, language pair, and turnaround time. With Translayte, you receive certified translations recognised for Express Entry, handled by professional translators, at just $31.75 per page, delivered in 12-24 hours, and with expedited service options. Request your free quote.

Certified Translations from $31.75 / page

Certified, sworn, notarised and legalised translations, accepted globally.

Translayte Image Order Your Translation Request a quote

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. IRCC requires that all documents submitted as part of an Express Entry application that are not in English or French be accompanied by a certified translation.
For most Express Entry streams (FSWP, FSTP, CEC), IRCC recommends translators from CTTIC-member bodies. If not certified in Canada, the translator must have equivalent certification and supply an affidavit of accuracy.
Translayte provides certified translations from Spanish, Mandarin, Hindi, Arabic, Portuguese, Tagalog, and 150 other languages into English or French for Express Entry.
ATIO certification is specifically required for the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) and certain Ontario-regulated professional bodies.

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