Language Bank

The Language Bank provides translation and interpretation services through volunteers to help newcomers settle more quickly in Canada.

Our Services:

  • Translation of documents like educational diplomas, degrees and transcripts, as well as other documents such as marriage certificates
  • Interpretation to help newcomers who have limited English
  • Affidavits and true copies of original documents
  • Referral to needed community services and resources.
How Long Does It Take?

Free Translation usually takes 4-6 weeks, depending on how many volunteers are available and the demand for their services

We require:

For Translation

  • Original documents
  • Permanent Resident Card or Canada Immigration Long Form showing date of arrival, country of origin and immigration category
  • Cash or cheque for affidavit service (an affidavit is a written statement done by oath and used as legal proof of accurate translation)
Deposit on translations that do not qualify for free services

For Interpretation

  • Early advance notice of time the service is required so we can arrange for a volunteer
  • Permanent Resident Card or Canada Immigration Long Form showing date of arrival, country of origin and immigration category
  • Client must pay for volunteer bus/parking costs
The Costs:

Free translation for people who have been in Canada less than 12 months.

Includes:

  • Basic educational documents (diploma, degree, training certificates, transcripts)
  • Professional status statement, declaration
  • Baptismal, birth, marriage certificates
  • Health records, immunization
  • Death/Divorce certificates
  • Police Clearance
Minimal Fees are charged:
  • When the client has been in Canada longer than 12 months (fees increase somewhat with the amount of time in Canada)
  • For all affidavits