Birth Certificate Translation in Canada: What You Need to Know

DocsBase CanadaDocsBase Canada
3 min read

When it comes to official documents, few are as important as your birth certificate. It serves as proof of identity, nationality, and age, and is frequently required for immigration, education, employment, and legal purposes. In a multilingual country like Canada, where both English and French are official languages, accurate and certified birth certificate translation is often necessary—particularly if the document was issued in a foreign language or in Quebec (French only).

At DocsBase Canada, we specialize in providing fast, reliable, and certified translations of birth certificates for use throughout Canada and internationally. Here’s what you need to know if you're seeking a birth certificate translation.

Why Translate a Birth Certificate?

There are many situations where a translated birth certificate is required, including:

  • Immigration and Citizenship Applications: IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) requires official translations of any documents not in English or French, French documents need to be translated into English for the USCIS.

  • University and School Admissions: Many institutions require an English version of your birth certificate for enrollment.

  • Legal Proceedings: Courts or legal authorities may request a certified English translation of your birth certificate.

  • Marriage Licenses and Name Changes: Provincial authorities often need translated documents for civil status registration.

  • Passport or Visa Applications: Travel documentation may require translated proof of birth and identity.

What Makes a Translation "Certified"?

A certified translation in Canada is a translation that is:

  • Completed by a professional translator fluent in both the source and target languages.

  • Accompanied by a signed certificate of accuracy affirming that the translation is true to the original.

  • Often notarized or signed by a Commissioner of Oaths, especially for legal or immigration use.

At DocsBase Canada, all our birth certificate translations come with a signed certificate of accuracy and can be notarized upon request.

Do I Need a Translation If My Birth Certificate Is in French?

If your birth certificate was issued in Quebec and is in French, a translation into English may still be required, depending on the institution or authority. For example:

  • IRCC may require English translations, even from French, depending on the context of the application.

  • Some provincial and federal departments prefer or require English documentation for consistency and clarity.

  • International organizations often request English documents, even if French is an official Canadian language.

Why Choose DocsBase Canada?

DocsBase Canada is a trusted provider of certified document translation services, with over a decade of experience helping individuals and businesses meet official requirements. We offer:

  • Certified translations accepted by all Canadian institutions

  • Same-day or 24-hour delivery available

  • Digital and hard copies provided

  • Professional confidentiality and secure handling

We serve clients in Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Ottawa, Calgary, and beyond through both our local offices and secure online platform.

How to Get Started

Getting your birth certificate translated is simple:

  1. Scan or take a clear photo of your birth certificate.

  2. Email it to info@docsbase.ca or use our secure online form.

  3. Receive a free quote within one hour.

  4. Once confirmed, we’ll deliver your certified translation—digitally and/or by mail.

Contact DocsBase Canada

For fast, certified, and fully compliant translations of your birth certificate, reach out to DocsBase Canada today.

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Written by

DocsBase Canada
DocsBase Canada

DocsBase Canada is a trusted provider of certified translation and document legalization services, serving individuals, law firms, and organizations across Canada. We specialize in translating a wide range of documents, including immigration papers, legal contracts, academic transcripts, financial records, and more. Our translations are completed by experienced professionals and are fully certified, meeting the standards of IRCC, Canadian courts, educational institutions, and other official bodies. At DocsBase Canada, we are committed to accuracy, confidentiality, and fast turnaround times. We understand the importance of properly prepared documents for immigration, study, work, or legal matters, and we ensure every translation is done with precision and care. Whether you need a single birth certificate translated or a full portfolio of legal documents, we’re here to help. Contact us today to get started. 🌐 Visit us at: www.docsbase.ca