Moving to Canada: preparing document translations

Use the checklist for your Canadian application

Start with the Canadian programme or organisation that will receive your documents. A move, a study application and professional recognition can involve different recipients. Record the purpose of each request and keep its current instructions with the relevant files.

For example, IRCC’s Express Entry instructions explain that the online application produces a personalised document checklist. Use your own checklist, rather than assuming another applicant’s document set will be the same.

Confirm the language and translator requirements

IRCC’s general supporting-document guidance says documents must be in English or French unless instructed otherwise. Its general translation requirements include an affidavit and a certified photocopy of the original document. Read these alongside the instructions for your particular application.

For Express Entry, the published instructions describe a translation stamped by a certified translator, or an affidavit route only where a certified translator cannot complete it. They also specify the source-document scan. Share the relevant instructions before asking us to arrange a translation; Dutch sworn status alone should not be treated as proof that every programme’s requirements are met.

Keep the source record and translation together

Give each requested document a clear filename and include all relevant pages, seals and stamps. Identify which original or copy the translator will work from, and keep it paired with the translation in your records.

Our birth certificate translation and marriage certificate translation services are useful starting points when those records appear on your checklist and need translation.

Separate immigration from qualification requests

If you also need documents for a school, employer or professional body, obtain that organisation’s instructions separately. Identify the records and versions it wants, including any transcript or supporting statement.

Use our diploma and transcript translation service for an enquiry about education records. The document preparation checklist helps you assemble clear files and reference material for the work.

Request a quote with the programme instructions

Request your no-obligation quote with your documents, required language, Canadian recipient, programme instructions and deadline. Mention any affidavit, translator certification or copy requirement in the request. We will confirm the translation arrangements, price and delivery time before you order.

For a broader overview of the records to organise before leaving the Netherlands, see our moving-abroad document guide.