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Certified translation is two files — not one PDF from Fiverr

Certified translation is two files — not one PDF from Fiverr

Client uploads "translation.pdf." File moves to green. Officer requests translator credentials — nothing on file except a printout with a stamp bought online.

Direct answer

Treat non-English/French supporting documents as a multi-part package, not one bucket. IRCC help-centre guidance (verify current wording for your stream) typically requires you to send:

  1. The English or French translation
  2. An affidavit from the person who completed the translation — unless your guide allows a certified translator seal/stamp path that replaces the affidavit
  3. A certified photocopy (or scan) of the original document the translation is based on

File those pieces on separate checklist lines, reject single unlabelled PDFs, and export the set with the submission package. See certified translation collection.

Hedge: Exact packaging language varies by IRCC guide and program. Confirm the checklist and glossary language that applies to that application before you tell a client “affidavit not needed.”

Checklist structure

LineContents
Original document copySource-language scan or certified photocopy per guide
Certified translationComplete English/French translation (all pages, stamps, seals, handwritten notes where present)
Translator attestationAffidavit or certified-translator seal/stamp + membership identifiers your guide expects
Optional: membership / contact proofWhere firm policy or the guide asks for membership number / association contact

GTA practices with high-volume South Asian and Chinese language docs often see name mismatch between stamp and certificate — QC before portal.

Common IRCC themes to confirm against current guidance (not legal advice):

  • Translations generally must not be done by the applicant or a family member / representative
  • Certified translators are typically members in good standing of a recognized professional association, with seal/stamp showing membership number
  • Where a certified translator is used, some IRCC guides say an affidavit is not required; where a non-certified translator is used, an affidavit sworn before an authorized official is typically required

Workflow

  1. Separate lines — never one “translation” bucket.
  2. Guest link to translator when the client uses an agency — separate from client uploads.
  3. Reject incomplete sets early — missing affidavit/seal or original copy delays ITA / portal windows.
  4. Co-agent QC — admin verifies attestation pieces; consultant verifies document match and completeness.
  5. Export with the submission package — CICC exportable PDF.

Related: wrong file type QC, incomplete application QC.

Product honesty

Hivi-X stores and organizes uploads your team approves. It does not certify translators, validate association membership, or guarantee IRCC acceptance of a translation package.

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Start a free trial or download the free Express Entry checklist PDF.

General information only — not immigration or legal advice. IRCC translation rules vary by application type and change over time; verify against the current IRCC guide and glossary for that stream. Hivi-X is document-collection software — not a licensed immigration consultant. Not affiliated with or endorsed by CICC or IRCC.

Answers are general operational information only — not legal, tax, regulatory, clinical, privacy, immigration, or professional advice. Requirements vary by matter, client, and regulator.

Frequently asked questions

What should RCICs file for certified translations?
Typically the English/French translation, a copy of the original (or certified photocopy as the guide requires), and either a certified translator's seal/stamp package or an affidavit swearing to accuracy — verify the specific IRCC guide for that application type.
Should translator credentials be a separate checklist line?
Yes for QC — keep original copy, translation, and attestation (affidavit or seal/membership proof) on distinct lines so gaps are visible before portal upload.
Can the translator upload directly?
Some firms send a guest link to the translator's email when workflow allows — your team still QC's that the stamp or affidavit matches the translation.
What QC fails are common?
Missing affidavit when required, missing original copy, name mismatch between stamp and certificate, incomplete pages/stamps untranslated, or translations done by the applicant or a family member.
Does Hivi-X verify translator accreditation?
No. Your team QC's against current IRCC guidance and firm standards.

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