Program delivery update: Using the services of an accredited interpreter – April 27, 2018

This update applies to interpretation services taking place in Canada that are funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for:

• refugee protection
• select permanent residence applications
• other requests for specific applications

This update clarifies that:

• the use of accredited interpreters is limited to interviews that could have significant impact on clients, such as:
  • in-Canada claims for refugee protection, including refugee eligibility interviews
  • interviews with individuals likely to be subject to removal from Canada
  • pre-removal risk assessment hearings
  • interviews with victims of abuse
  • sponsorship interviews (for example, marriages of convenience)
• officials should allow for a degree of discretion when deciding to provide IRCC-funded interpretation services in other proceedings not included in this list

This update also includes:

• downloadable files for lists of interpreters have replaced links, and these lists will be updated regularly
• a new “Interpreters” section has been added to clarify the status of, and interpretation standard criteria for, interpreters
• a new “Complaints” section has been added that includes information on:
  • complaints from an interpreter
  • complaints about an interpreter

Updated instructions

• Using the services of an accredited interpreter