Difference Between Affidavit Certification and ATIO Certification in Translation.
When it comes to translation services in Canada, particularly for official documents, it is essential to understand the difference between an Affidavit Certification and ATIO Certification. Both serve to authenticate translated documents but are distinct in their processes, requirements, and legal recognition.
What is an Affidavit Certification?
An affidavit certification involves a translator swearing before a notary public or commissioner of oaths that the translation they have provided is accurate and true to the best of their knowledge. The key steps in this process include:
1. Translation of the Document: The translator first completes the translation.
2. Swearing an Oath: The translator then signs with a commissioner of oaths or notary public, affirming that the translation is accurate and complete.
3. Affidavit of Certification: The notary or commissioner certifies this oath with a stamp or seal, producing a document that confirms the translator’s sworn statement.
This certification does not validate the translator’s qualifications or the quality of the translation; it only confirms that the translator believes their work to be accurate. Affidavit-certified translations are often accepted by the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC), requirements of certain legal or governmental bodies.
What is ATIO Certification?
The Association of Translators and Interpreters of Ontario (ATIO) is a professional organization responsible for certifying translators in Ontario. ATIO certification guarantees that the translator has met specific qualifications and standards. Here’s what ATIO certification entails:
1. Professional Standards: ATIO-certified translators must pass rigorous exams or meet established criteria proving their expertise in both the source and target languages.
2. Legal Recognition: In Ontario, and many other regions of Canada, ATIO-certified translations are legally recognized and accepted by courts, government agencies, and educational institutions without the need for further certification.
3. Assurance of Quality: ATIO certification provides an assurance of quality and accuracy because the translation is done by a professional who has proven their competence and adherence to industry standards.
Key Differences Between Affidavit Certification and ATIO Certification
Use Cases: Affidavit-certified translations might be suitable for Immigration Purposes, College, Business documents or organizations with less stringent requirements. In contrast, ATIO-certified translations are mandatory for Drive Tests, Provincial Nominee Programs, Court Marriage, Skilled Trades, Professional Licensing Boards such as the Canadian Nurses Association or the Professional Engineers Ontario, and other official purposes.
Offering Both Certifications
At Total Translations, we understand that different clients have unique needs and requirements when it comes to translation certification. That’s why we offer both Affidavit Certification and ATIO Certification services.
Choosing between Affidavit Certification and ATIO Certification depends largely on the requirements of the institution or agency requesting the translation. For DriveTest Centre or Provincial Nominee Programs, ATIO-certified translations are the safer and more widely accepted option. On the other hand, Affidavit Certification may suffice for academic or immigration purposes, where a general assurance of accuracy is enough.
At Total Translations, we are here to guide you through the process and ensure your documents are certified according to your needs.