The two terms are often used as if they mean the same thing. They do not — and ordering the wrong one costs either money or a rejected submission.
The terms certified translation and notarized translation are often used as if they mean the same thing. They do not. The distinction matters because ordering unnecessary notarization can add cost and time, while failing to obtain it when specifically required can create problems with a submission.
A certified translation is completed and certified by a translator whose professional status meets the receiving organization's requirements. In several Canadian federal processes, the translator's professional standing is evidenced through a seal or stamp and membership information.
Notarization is a separate legal or notarial act. Depending on the process, a translator may swear an affidavit about their language proficiency and the accuracy of the translation before a notary public, commissioner of oaths or another authorized official.
A notary is not necessarily evaluating whether the translation is linguistically correct. The notarial act generally concerns the declaration, signature, identity or documentary form required by the relevant process.
No. Requirements vary by program. For Canadian citizenship, IRCC distinguishes between Canadian certified translators and uncertified translators. Canadian certified translators do not need the affidavit that is generally required when an uncertified translator is used.
Ontario's OINP provides a useful example of why the rules must be checked carefully. Applicants applying from within Ontario generally must use an ATIO-certified translator. Where an appropriate ATIO-certified translator cannot be located, the program sets out an exception involving notarization and evidence of efforts to locate one. Applicants applying from outside Ontario follow a different notarization rule.
Certilate helps you obtain a certified translation while keeping the certification format aligned with the requirements you provide for your application.
Get a quote →Information current as of 29 August 2026. Government and institutional requirements can change. Verify the receiving organization’s current instructions before submitting.
The question is not only whether a document was translated accurately. The receiving organization may also care who translated it, how their professional status is shown, and what the certification includes.
If a document required for an IRCC application is not in English or French, translation becomes part of the checklist. The precise rule depends on the program.
Express Entry applicants often gather records from several countries. When a required document is not in English or French, IRCC’s translation rules must be followed.
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