Applying for Portuguese citizenship from Canada involves a few important steps to ensure your documents are properly accepted by Portuguese authorities. In this guide, you’ll learn which documents require translation, how to obtain an Apostille in Canada, and the correct order to prepare your paperwork for your citizenship application.
Documents That Require Translation for Portuguese Citizenship
When applying for Portuguese citizenship, certain documents must be translated into Portuguese by a Certified Translator recognized by the Portuguese Consulate. These documents include:
1. Birth Certificate (Long Form)
- Must show your parents’ names.
- Requires an Apostille.
- Must be translated into Portuguese.
2. RCMP Criminal Record Certificate
- Must be recent (issued within the last 3–6 months).
- Requires an Apostille.
- Must be translated into Portuguese.
3. Marriage Certificate (If Applying Through Marriage)
- Must be a certified copy.
- Requires an Apostille.
- Must be translated into Portuguese.
4. Passport Copy (If Requested)
- A clear copy of the identification page.
- Translation into Portuguese may be required depending on the consulate’s instructions.
Step-by-Step: How to Prepare Your Documents
Correctly preparing your documents ensures a smooth citizenship application. Here’s the order you must follow for each document:
Step 1: Obtain the Original Document
Request an official or certified copy from the appropriate Canadian authority, such as Vital Statistics offices or the RCMP.
Step 2: Apostille the Document
Before proceeding with translation, you must obtain an Apostille:
- For federal documents (e.g., RCMP certificates), Apostilles are issued by Global Affairs Canada.
- For provincial documents (e.g., birth and marriage certificates), Apostilles are issued by the provincial competent authority.
Important: Apostille authentication must be done before translation.
Step 3: Translate the Document into Portuguese
Once apostilled, the entire document, including the Apostille certificate, must be translated into Portuguese by a Certified Translator recognized by the Portuguese Consulate.
As a Certified Translator officially recognized by the Portuguese Consulate, I provide certified translations that meet their requirements.
Step 4: (If Applicable) Notarize Copies Before Translation
If the consulate requires notarized copies — such as for a passport — notarization must be completed before the document is translated.
Please note: I do not provide notarization services. Applicants are responsible for arranging any required notarizations separately.
Understanding the Apostille Process in Canada
Since January 11, 2024, Canada issues Apostilles under the Hague Apostille Convention.
Depending on the origin of your document, Apostilles can be obtained through:
- Global Affairs Canada (for federally issued documents)
- Provincial Authorities (for documents issued by provinces, such as birth or marriage certificates)
For full instructions, visit the Global Affairs Canada Apostille Services page.
Key Reminders for Your Portuguese Citizenship Application
- Certified Translations: All translations must be performed by a Certified Translator officially recognized by the Portuguese Consulate.
- Apostille Requirement: Apostilles are mandatory for birth certificates, marriage certificates, and RCMP criminal record certificates.
- Document Validity: RCMP Criminal Record Certificates must be issued within the last 3–6 months to be accepted.
- Translation of Apostille Certificates: The Apostille page itself must also be translated into Portuguese along with the original document.
Need Help with Certified Translations for Portuguese Citizenship?
If you are preparing your application for Portuguese citizenship from Canada, I would be happy to assist you with certified translations that fully meet consular requirements.
Please contact me to request a quote or if you have any questions about the translation process.