If you are not comfortable speaking in English or French you may need an interpreter to help you communicate. It is important to have an interpreter so that you understand what is happening during your refugee claim. Some examples of when you might have an interpreter are:
- During meeting with your legal representative
- During interviews with IRCC or CBSA
- At your IRB-RPD hearing
If you have a legal aid lawyer, legal aid may pay for some interpretation. If you hire a private legal representative, you will likely have to pay the fees yourself. In other situations, such as in free legal clinics, a friend, or a volunteer or worker can help interpret for you.
You can have a free professional interpreter in your language at your refugee hearing. The IRB-RPD will select the interpreter, you may not choose the interpreter. All IRB-RPD interpreters are trained and experienced in interpreting during refugee hearings.
What your interpreter should do
The main role of an interpreter is to make sure everyone can understand each other clearly.
Interpreters should:
- Translate exactly or as closely as possible. They should not add anything or leave anything out.
- Never show if they agree or disagree with something.
- Keep everything that is said private.
Your interpreter should not:
- Give you legal advice or explain things without first getting permission from the speaker.
- Say what they think you meant, or shorten or expand what you say.
If you think the interpreter made a mistake or you do not understand something, tell your legal representative, the Member, or the officer.