ATIO Certified and notarized translation company in Toronto, Vancouver providing official certified translation services

A certified translation is a translation that includes a certification statement from the translator or translation agency, affirming the accuracy of the translation. It is widely accepted for various official purposes. On the other hand, a notarized translation is a certified translation that has undergone additional verification by a notary public, providing an extra level of authentication. Whether you need a certified translation or a notarized translation depends on the specific requirements of the organization or institution where you intend to submit the translated documents.

Understanding Certified Accreditation Bodies

ATIO (Association of Translators and Interpreters of Ontario): ATIO is one of the leading professional associations for translators and interpreters in Ontario. They offer certification programs for translators and interpreters, ensuring that members meet rigorous standards of competence and professionalism.

STIBC (Society of Translators and Interpreters of British Columbia): STIBC is a professional association that represents translators and interpreters in British Columbia. They offer certification exams and uphold standards of excellence in translation and interpreting services.

OTTIAQ (Ordre des traducteurs, terminologues et interprètes agréés du Québec): OTTIAQ is the professional association for translators, terminologists, and interpreters in Quebec. They regulate the profession, certify members, and promote the highest standards of quality and ethics.

ATIM (Association of Translators and Interpreters of Manitoba): ATIM is the provincial association for translators and interpreters in Manitoba. They provide certification and professional development opportunities for members, ensuring the quality of translation services in the province.

ATINS (Association of Translators and Interpreters of Nova Scotia): ATINS is the professional association for translators and interpreters in Nova Scotia. They advocate for the profession, offer certification programs, and promote professional development among members.

ATIA (Association of Translators and Interpreters of Alberta): ATIA represents translators and interpreters in Alberta. They set standards for the profession, provide certification exams, and support members through professional development opportunities.

ATIS (Association of Translators and Interpreters of Saskatchewan): ATIS is the provincial association for translators and interpreters in Saskatchewan. They offer certification programs, advocate for the profession, and promote the highest standards of quality and professionalism.

CTINB (Corporation of Translators, Terminologists and Interpreters of New Brunswick): CTINB is the professional association for translators, terminologists, and interpreters in New Brunswick. They regulate the profession, certify members, and promote excellence in translation and interpreting services.

Most Commonly Asked Questions About Certified Translation

Q: What is certified translation?

A: Certified translation is a translation of a document that is performed by a professional translator and accompanied by a signed statement affirming that the translation is accurate and complete to the best of the translator’s knowledge. Certified translations are commonly used for official documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, diplomas, and other legal documents.

Q: When do I need a certified translation?

A: Numerous reasons make certified translations necessary for anyone. Certified translations are often required for documents that need to be used for official or legal purposes. Examples include immigration documents, court filings, educational documents, and medical records.

Q: What is the difference between certified translation, notarized translation, and sworn translation?

Certified Translation: A certified translation is accompanied by a signed statement from the translator attesting to the accuracy and completeness of the translation.

Notarized Translation: In addition to the translator’s certification, a notarized translation is accompanied by a notarial certificate signed by a notary public affirming the authenticity of the translator’s signature.

Sworn Translation: In Quebec, sworn translators are appointed by the Superior Court of Quebec and have the authority to certify translations. Sworn translations are recognized as legally valid and may be required for certain types of documents.

Q: What does a certified translation look like?

A: A certified translation usually includes a signed statement from the translator or translation agency certifying the accuracy and completeness of the translation. The statement may include the translator’s contact information, qualifications, and the date of translation. Some countries or organizations may require additional notarization or authentication of the certification.

Q: Is a certified translation different from a notarized translation?

A: Yes, a certified translation and a notarized translation are different. A certified translation is accompanied by a signed statement from the translator or translation agency, while a notarized translation is further validated by a notary public. Notarization involves the notary public confirming the translator’s identity and witnessing their signature on the certification statement.

Q: Can I translate my own documents and have them certified?

A: Generally, self-translation and self-certification are not considered valid for certified translations. The certification process requires an unbiased third party, preferably a professional translator, to provide an objective and accurate translation and certify its authenticity.

Q: Is a certified translation always required for immigration purposes?

A: The need for a certified translation for immigration purposes depends on the specific requirements of the immigration authorities in the destination country. In many cases, immigration authorities mandate that documents not in the official language of the country be translated and certified for visa applications, residency permits, or citizenship applications. It’s essential to check the specific requirements of the country where you intend to apply for immigration.