What’s the difference between Soft Copies (Left) vs. Hard Copies (Right)?
E-Stamp (Soft Copy) E-Stamp (Soft Copy) | Wet-ink Stamp (Hard Copy) Wet-ink Stamp (Hard Copy) |
| Format: Encrypted PDF + E-Stamp + Verification Code (Applicable only to ATIO/STIBC) | Format: Printout + Wet-ink Stamp + Signature |
| Delivery: Email | Delivery: Mailing / Pick Up |
| Acceptance: Online Submissions (IRCC Portal, RCMP website, etc.) / Some On-site Submissions (Some DriveTests, City Halls and government departments are already accepting colour printouts of soft copies. Please consult the requesting authorities for details.)* | Acceptance: On-site Submissions/ Most Online Submissions |
| Price: Best Price | Price: 10-20% More Expensive than Soft Copy |
| Turnaround Time: Fastest | Turnaround Time: 1+ Business Day(s) Later than Soft Copy |
- * ATIO launched E-stamp in November, 2025. It is gradually getting recognized by authorities across Canada. So far, we’ve learned that some DriveTests in Toronto, London and Oakville accept colour printouts of soft copies. Some departments still need the wet-ink hard copies as there may be delay in administrative changes. Please consult the authority that you are submitting the translation document to for more details as we don’t have updates from these authorities regarding their policy changes.