Translation Services in Burnaby, BC

Choose the service for the task

For a conversation with ICBC, request its free over-the-phone interpretation rather than commissioning a written translation. ICBC offers this support in 170 languages for claims, insurance and driver licensing enquiries. It does not provide interpreter services for road tests. For licence or driving-record translation, ICBC directs customers to approved translators or consulates in B.C. [1]

For business correspondence, ask the provider to quote the intended readership, terminology and delivery format. For an official submission, obtain the recipient’s translation instructions and share them with the provider. Ask whether the recipient needs certification, notarization, paper copies or a particular attachment. Keep those instructions with your quote so you can check the finished work against them.

Check the named translator’s qualifications

Search STIBC’s Certified Member Directory by source language, target language, professional category or city. The directory also offers an ICBC-registration filter. STIBC states that only Certified Translators use its seal and recommends checking membership in good standing. Arrange the work with the professional you select; STIBC does not operate as a translation agency. [3] [4]

Ask who will translate and sign your documents. For ICBC work, confirm that person’s approval for the required language direction and specify ICBC as the recipient. ICBC cautions that a translator may have approval for one direction without approval for the reverse direction. [1]

For ICES, select a Canadian-certified translator. If you submit from outside Canada and cannot obtain one, ICES permits an official translator in your home country. If that translation lacks accuracy, ICES requires a replacement from a Canadian-certified translator. [2]

Set the correct scope for educational records

ICES requires literal English translations for educational documents outside English or French. Translate marks sheets, transcripts, diplomas, certificates and grade books in their entirety, including information on the reverse. For calendars, course outlines and syllabuses, ICES requires only pages describing courses and other information specific to your credential. Separate these document types before requesting a price. [2]

ICES permits translation from originals or copies. The translator must attach a signed copy of the educational document to each translation and stamp all document copies submitted for evaluation with their official stamp. ICES checks the accompanying copy against the original submitted for evaluation. Ask the translator to include this preparation in the agreed scope. [2]

Provide legible images of the required pages and relevant reverse sides. Ask the translator to inspect seals, handwriting and small print before quoting. Identify names you want checked against another record and agree on how the translator will handle unclear text.

Agree on cost, timing and corrections

Send each provider the same package and request an itemized total. Ask whether the quote includes the required pages, signed attachments, stamps, delivery and any recipient-requested notarization. Give the provider your submission deadline and request a completion date that leaves time for your review.

ICBC states that translator fees and services vary. Confirm your provider’s price, delivery format and any additional ICBC paperwork before authorizing work. Ask how you will receive the translation and whether you need to arrange a document-review video call. [1]

If you arrange work for a staff member, agree with them on who will send the records and receive the translation. Ask the provider who can access the files and how long they retain them. Agree on a correction process, then check names, dates, document numbers and included pages before submission.

ICBC phone interpretation: published daily service windows

Choose a service for your submission

Your hiring checklist

1. Obtain the recipient’s translation instructions before requesting quotes.
2. Specify the source language, target language, recipient and deadline.
3. Separate full academic records from credential-specific calendar, course-outline or syllabus pages.
4. Confirm the named translator’s qualifications and any required language-direction approval.
5. Provide legible images of the required pages, including relevant reverse sides.
6. Request a written total covering attachments, stamps and delivery.
7. Agree on file access, retention and corrections.
8. Check the completed package against the source records and recipient’s instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I arrange an ICBC translation remotely?

ICBC allows you to send documents electronically and review them with the translator during a scheduled video call. Print translations returned by email and bring them with your originals to the driver licensing office. [1]

Do I need to translate an entire course calendar for ICES?

For calendars, course outlines and syllabuses outside English or French, ICES requires only pages describing courses and other information specific to your credential. Its full-document requirement, including reverse-side information, applies to marks sheets, transcripts, diplomas, certificates and grade books. [2]

Can I use a translator in my home country for ICES?

ICES permits an official home-country translator if you submit from outside Canada and cannot obtain a Canadian-certified translator. If the work lacks accuracy, ICES requires a new translation from a Canadian-certified translator. [2]

Should I order notarization with the translation?

Ask the receiving organization whether it requires notarization before ordering it. Share its instructions with the provider and ask for the charge as a separate item in your quote.