Why do we need translation?

FOR SOCIETY IN GENERAL

To facilitate communication among people who speak different languages:

For example, among speakers of French, English and Spanish in North America.

To safeguard regional identity:

Paradoxically, globalization strengthens regional identity. As English becomes the language of international trade, people want to retain their own languages in every area of their lives. Translators have a crucial role to play in this process.

To ensure quality language in communications:

Translators respect language rules and clearly express messages originally communicated in other languages.

To adapt communications from other cultures to suit local conventions:

For example, football does not mean the same thing in Quebec as in France. These types of distinctions must be taken into account.

And, lastly, to comply with Quebec’s language laws:

Translation plays a key role in the application of the Official Languages Act and the Charter of the French Language.

FOR BUSINESSES

To increase sales:

Businesses can open up new markets and grow their customer base.

They can get access to a broader range of suppliers.

To improve their brand image:

Businesses that communicate error-free with customers in their own language show that they respect the people who allow them to exist.

To boost productivity and efficiency:

Businesses that communicate clearly with employees in their own language, using correct and understandable terms, avoid misunderstandings and lost time.

To raise their company’s profile:

Businesses that can communicate with potential partners across the country and abroad, including at national and international events, build their reputation and become references outside of their area.

I want to have an official document translated. What should I do?

You must contact Order members directly to ask for their availabilities and rates. Please note that OTTIAQ’s head office does not offer translation services.

 

Consult the Order’s directory. Select “Certified translator,” the source language (the language of the document you wish to have translated) and the target language (the language into which you want the document translated). Check “Translation of official documents.” Enter your postal code if you wish to narrow your search. Then click “Find a member.”

I require an interpreter for a government interview (court, SAAQ, immigration, hospital, etc.)

You must contact Order members directly to ask for their availabilities and rates. Please note that OTTIAQ’s head office does not offer interpreting services.

Consult the Order’s directory. Select “Certified interpreter” and indicate the source and target languages. Enter your postal code if you wish to narrow your search. Then click “Find a member.”

I need to have a document translated abroad verified and stamped with the Order's seal (certified). What should I do?

You must contact Order members directly to ask for their availabilities and rates. Please note that OTTIAQ’s head office does not offer translation services.

Consult the Order’s directory. Select “Certified translator,” the source language (the language of the document you wish to have translated) and the target language (the language into which you want the document translated). Check “Translation of official documents.” Enter your postal code if you wish to narrow your search. Then click “Find a member.” Members who translate official documents usually have a seal.

I cannot find a certified translator or interpreter in the language combination I need. What should I do?

First, contact OTTIAQ. You may also contact one of Canada’s other professional translation associations by referring to the Language resources page. Alternatively, you may contact the embassy or consulate of the country from which the documents were issued.

How much do translators charge?

Translators each have their own rates, which can vary depending on the language combination, type and level of difficulty of the document, and time frame. Rates may be calculated by word or by hour or a flat fee may be charged.

I am dissatisfied with an OTTIAQ member's services. What should I do?

Consult the Protection of the public section.

What skills and tasks are required of translators, terminologists and interpreters?

Consult the Professions page in the About section to learn the differences between the professions and the skills and working conditions involved.

How do I become a member of OTTIAQ?

Refer to the Future members section for information on OTTIAQ’s certification process.

How much do OTTIAQ members pay in annual dues?

Refer to the 2019-2020 fee schedule.

What degrees does OTTIAQ recognize for obtaining the titles of certified translator, terminologist or interpreter?

Refer to the Future members section for information on recognized degrees and OTTIAQ’s translation, terminology and interpreting certification process.

What are the job prospects and salaries like in translation, terminology and interpreting?

The job prospects are excellent. Translation is among the most sought-after fields. In the 2007 Relance Survey of University Graduates, 87.1% of graduates responded that they had full-time jobs in their fields.

How do I become a student member of OTTIAQ?

Refer to the Students section to learn about the advantages of becoming a student member of OTTIAQ. Please note that student members are not members of the Order. For 2019–2020, the registration fee is $45 plus tax.

What is the mentorship program?

The mentorship program is the preferred way to become an OTTIAQ member. To learn how it works, click here.

Can I post a job offer or offer a contract to one of your members?

Employers may post job offers or offer translation, terminology or interpreting contracts to members through OTTIAQ. Refer to the Post a job offer page.

I am looking for a translation, terminology or interpreting internship. Can OTTIAQ help me find one?

OTTIAQ does not offer internship placement or search services. We suggest that you use online search engines such as Canada411.ca to find translation firms and in-house translation departments and contact them directly. Do not forget to include the preferred length and time of the internship and attach your CV to the application.

I am doing research on translation. Can OTTIAQ help me?

Refer to the Canadian Translation Industry Sectoral Committee report. You can also consult the Language Industry Association’s website and any of the other sites listed on the Useful links page.