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ABC Translation

Frequently asked questions

Answers about certified translation, apostilles, legalization, document retrieval and interpreting in Canada.

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Certified translation

Does IRCC accept your translations?

Yes. IRCC requires translations done by a certified translator, or an affidavit from the translator when certification is not available for a language. We provide the format IRCC asks for with the translator’s declaration.

How long does it take?

Most civil documents of one or two pages are ready in two to three business days. Express delivery within 24 hours is often possible; ask for it in your request.

Can I send a photo instead of the original?

For most uses, yes. A clear scan or photo of every page is enough to translate. Some authorities want the translation attached to a certified copy; we tell you before starting.

Do you translate into languages other than English and French?

Yes. We translate from and into most languages, including for documents leaving Canada.

Apostille

Is an apostille the same as legalization?

No. An apostille is a single certificate recognized by all Convention members. Countries outside the Convention still require authentication followed by legalization at their embassy or consulate.

Can a translation be apostilled?

Yes, once it has been certified or notarized in the form the authority accepts. We handle both steps.

Do I need to be in Canada?

No. Many clients live abroad. We can order the Canadian document, have it apostilled and ship it to you.

How long does an apostille take?

It depends on the authority and the season. We give you the current processing time with the quote and offer express options when they exist.

Embassy and consulate legalization

How do I know if my country needs legalization or an apostille?

Tell us the destination country and the purpose. We check the current status of the Convention and the mission’s rules, and quote the right procedure.

Do I have to go to the embassy myself?

Usually not. We submit on your behalf where the mission accepts agents, which most do.

Why is legalization priced case by case?

Consular fees, required translations and processing times vary widely between countries and document types, so we quote each file.

Can you legalize documents from other countries for use in Canada?

Canadian authorities now accept apostilles from Convention members. For other countries we can advise on the chain in the issuing country and translate the result.

Document retrieval

Can you order a certificate for someone else?

Registries only issue records to people entitled to them, such as the person named, a parent or an authorized representative. We tell you what proof of entitlement is needed.

I live outside Canada. Can you still help?

Yes. That is the most common case. Everything is handled by email and courier.

Can you get a criminal record check for me?

An RCMP certified check requires fingerprints taken in person or by an accredited agency. We explain the options where you live and handle the apostille or translation afterwards.

How much does retrieval cost?

Our service fee plus the registry’s own fees, which vary by province and document. We quote both before starting.

Interpreting

How far in advance should I book?

A week ahead gives the best choice of interpreters. Short-notice requests are often possible, especially for remote interpreting.

Is there a minimum duration?

On-site assignments usually have a minimum booking, while remote calls can be shorter. The quote states it clearly.

Can a family member interpret instead?

Courts, notaries and many institutions require an impartial professional interpreter. We recommend checking before the appointment.

Do you provide sign language interpreters?

Tell us about the assignment and we will confirm what we can arrange for ASL or LSQ.

Tell us about your documents

Prices depend on the document, languages and destination country. Send us the details and we reply with a fixed quote, usually within one business day.

Prefer email or phone? Write to info@abc-offices.com or call +1 315 820 1187.