Arrange Translations of Key Documents

Description

Identify which documents need certified English translation and arrange translations before you arrive to avoid delays on essential tasks in BC.

In person 1–2 hours

Online 30–45 min

What to do

1. List documents originally in a language other than English or French: birth certificate, marriage certificate, academic transcripts, driver's licence, police clearance

2. Check each institution's specific translation requirements (ICBC, your school's admissions office, your employer's HR department)

3. Hire a certified translator — in BC, look for a member of the Society of Translators and Interpreters of BC (STIBC)

4. Request a signed and stamped translated copy for each document; keep the original untouched

5. For academic transcripts, check if a notarised copy is required or if a translation alone is sufficient

6. Store translated documents with originals and include a copy in your digital cloud backup

Warnings

ICBC accepts only approved translators

To exchange a foreign driver's licence at ICBC, the translation must be done by an ICBC-approved translator.
A general certified translation may not be accepted — verify the ICBC approved translator list before you commission the work.

Different institutions have different requirements

A translation acceptable to one college may not meet the standard of another organisation.
Always confirm requirements directly with the specific institution before paying for a translation.

Tips

STIBC directory

The Society of Translators and Interpreters of BC (stibc.org) maintains a searchable directory of certified translators by language pair.

ICBC online translator list

Search 'ICBC approved translators' on the ICBC website for the official list of translators accepted for driver's licence exchange.

Documents that usually don't need translation

Passports, Canadian visas, study/work permits, and IRCC-issued documents are already in English or French and do not require translation.

Students: credential evaluation

International academic credentials may also need evaluation by WES (World Education Services) or ICES — check your institution's admissions requirements.

Workers: credential recognition

Regulated professions (nursing, engineering, teaching) require credential recognition through the relevant BC regulatory body, separate from translation.

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