What language should my supporting documents be in?

A document becomes an affidavit when a person signs the document, in the presence of an authorized person, after taking an oath that what the document says is true and accurate.

An affidavit is often used in order to verify that a translation of a document accurately reflects what is stated in the original language of the document.

Certified photocopy

A photocopy of an original document. It must be readable and certified as a true copy of the original by an authorized person. The person compares the documents and marks on the photocopy:

• • their name and signature

• • their position or title

• • the name of the original document

• • the date they certified the document

• • the phrase “I certify that this is a true copy of the original document.”

In Canada, examples of authorized persons who can certify the copies of your original documents include:

• • notary public

• • commissioner of oaths, or

• • commissioner of taking affidavits

Check with your provincial or territorial authorities to be sure who can certify your documents.

Outside Canada, each country has different authorities to certify documents. A notary public may be able to certify your documents, but you should check with your local authorities to be sure.

You and your family members cannot certify copies of your documents. In this case, family member means your:

• • parent

• • guardian

• • sibling

• • spouse

• • common-law partner

• • conjugal partner

• • grandparent

• • child

• • aunt

• • uncle

• • niece

• • nephew

• • first cousin