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Translation and Interpretation Services

An overview of services available to assist with translation or interpretation needs in Calgary for official documents or communication.

Sections

1. Types of Translation and Interpretation Services Available in Calgary

A. Translation Services

Translation services involve converting written text from one language to another. Common types of translation services in Calgary include:

  • Document Translation: For personal, legal, or official documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, academic transcripts, immigration forms, contracts, and medical records.
  • Website and Marketing Translation: For businesses looking to localize their content for diverse audiences.
  • Technical Translation: For specialized fields such as engineering, IT, healthcare, and law.
  • Certified Translation: For official documents requiring certification for legal or immigration purposes.

B. Interpretation Services

Interpretation services involve real-time oral translation. Common types include:

  • Consecutive Interpretation: The interpreter translates after the speaker pauses, often used in meetings or interviews.
  • Simultaneous Interpretation: The interpreter translates in real-time, often used in conferences or large events.
  • Community Interpretation: For public services such as healthcare, legal aid, or social services.
  • Telephone and Video Interpretation: Remote interpretation services for quick and convenient access.

2. Where to Access Translation and Interpretation Services in Calgary

A. Professional Translation and Interpretation Agencies

Several agencies in Calgary specialize in providing professional translation and interpretation services. Examples include:

  • CanTalk: Offers over-the-phone interpretation and document translation in over 200 languages.
  • Access Language Services: Provides certified translation and interpretation services for legal, medical, and business needs.
  • Languages in Motion: Specializes in certified translations and on-demand interpretation services, including video and phone options.

B. Community Organizations

Non-profit organizations and community centers often provide free or low-cost translation and interpretation services for newcomers and immigrants. Examples include:

  • Calgary Immigrant Womenโ€™s Association (CIWA): Offers interpretation and translation services for immigrant women and their families.
  • Calgary Catholic Immigration Society (CCIS): Provides language support services for newcomers, including interpretation for accessing healthcare, legal aid, and social services.
  • Immigrant Services Calgary (ISC): Offers translation and interpretation services to help newcomers navigate settlement processes.

C. Government Services

  • Alberta Health Services (AHS): Provides free interpretation services for patients who need assistance communicating with healthcare providers.
  • City of Calgary Services: Offers interpretation support for accessing municipal services, including public transit, housing, and social programs.

D. Freelance Translators and Interpreters

You can also hire freelance professionals through platforms like ProZ, Upwork, or local directories. Ensure they are certified if you need official translations.


3. Costs of Translation and Interpretation Services

The cost of translation and interpretation services in Calgary varies depending on the type of service, language, and complexity of the task. Below are general price ranges:

Translation Services

  • Certified Document Translation: $30โ€“$100 per page, depending on the document type and language.
  • General Translation: $0.10โ€“$0.30 per word.
  • Specialized Translation (e.g., legal, medical): $0.20โ€“$0.50 per word.

Interpretation Services

  • In-Person Interpretation: $50โ€“$150 per hour, with a minimum booking time of 2โ€“3 hours.
  • Telephone or Video Interpretation: $1.50โ€“$3.00 per minute.
  • Community Interpretation: Often free or subsidized through non-profits or government programs.

4. How to Access These Services

A. Steps to Access Translation Services

  1. Identify Your Needs: Determine the type of document or content you need translated and whether certification is required.
  2. Choose a Provider: Research agencies or freelancers that specialize in your required language and field.
  3. Request a Quote: Provide details about the document (e.g., word count, language pair, deadline) to get an accurate cost estimate.
  4. Submit Your Document: Send a scanned copy of your document securely to the provider.
  5. Review and Approve: Once the translation is complete, review it for accuracy before finalizing.

B. Steps to Access Interpretation Services

  1. Determine the Setting: Decide whether you need in-person, telephone, or video interpretation.
  2. Book in Advance: Contact the service provider to schedule an interpreter, especially for in-person services.
  3. Provide Context: Share details about the event or meeting to help the interpreter prepare.
  4. Confirm Availability: Ensure the interpreter is available at the required time and location.

5. Required Procedures and Documentation

  • For Certified Translations: You may need to provide the original document or a clear scanned copy. Some agencies may require proof of identity.
  • For Interpretation Services: Provide details about the event, including the date, time, location, and subject matter.
  • For Subsidized Services: If accessing free or low-cost services through non-profits, you may need to provide proof of income, immigration status, or residency in Calgary.

6. Tips and Considerations

  • Plan Ahead: Book services well in advance, especially for rare languages or certified translations.
  • Verify Credentials: Ensure the translator or interpreter is certified by a recognized body, such as the Association of Translators and Interpreters of Alberta (ATIA).
  • Check for Subsidies: Many non-profits and government programs offer free or low-cost services for newcomers and low-income individuals.
  • Be Clear About Deadlines: Communicate your timeline to avoid delays, especially for legal or immigration-related documents.
  • Use Technology: For quick and informal translations, consider apps like Google Translate, but avoid them for official or sensitive documents.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: When working with interpreters, provide context about cultural nuances to ensure accurate communication.

7. Additional Resources

  • Association of Translators and Interpreters of Alberta (ATIA): www.atia.ab.ca
    A professional organization that certifies translators and interpreters in Alberta.

  • Immigrant Services Calgary (ISC): www.immigrantservicescalgary.ca
    Offers a range of language support services for newcomers.

  • Calgary Public Library: www.calgarylibrary.ca
    Provides free access to language learning resources and may have information on local translation services.


By leveraging these services and resources, you can effectively navigate language barriers in Calgary, whether for personal, professional, or legal purposes.