Long Term Interpreter Agency - IRB

PROCUREMENT OVERVIEW:
The Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB) of Canada is seeking quotations for long-term interpreter services to support its operations. The project aims to provide in-person language interpretation services for various languages, facilitating communication for individuals involved in immigration and refugee processes. The contract will initially be for one year, with an option to extend for up to three additional one-year periods under the same terms.

ISSUING ORGANIZATION:
The issuing organization is the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB), located in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. The primary contact for this RFP is Carruniya Anandakumaran, reachable at [email protected].

KEY DATES:

• Posted Date: May 6, 2026
• Proposal Due Date: June 12, 2026, at 2:00 PM EST
• Performance Period: Initial term of one year, with options for three one-year extensions.

MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS:
Bidders must meet the following mandatory requirements to be considered eligible:

• Security Clearance: All personnel providing services must have valid security clearance as per the Contract Security Program of Public Works and Government Services Canada.
• Language Proficiency: Bidders must demonstrate the ability to provide interpretation services in a variety of languages as listed in the attached documents.
• Experience: Bidders should have relevant experience in providing interpretation services, particularly in legal or governmental contexts.
• Compliance with Trade Agreements: Bidders must comply with various trade agreements, including the Canada-Korea Free Trade Agreement and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).

TECHNICAL CAPABILITIES:
Bidders should possess expertise in in-person language interpretation, with the ability to handle diverse languages and dialects. Familiarity with legal terminology and processes related to immigration and refugee matters is essential.

DELIVERABLES AND PERFORMANCE STANDARDS:
Key deliverables include the provision of qualified interpreters for scheduled hearings and meetings, adherence to timelines, and compliance with security and confidentiality requirements. Performance metrics will likely include response times, interpreter availability, and client satisfaction.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
While not mandatory, preferred qualifications include:

• Experience working with governmental or legal entities.
• Additional certifications in interpretation or language services.
• A broader range of language offerings beyond those listed as mandatory.

This summary encapsulates the essential information required for potential bidders to assess their fit for the IRB's interpreter services opportunity.