CERTIFIED TRANSLATION SERVICES

Certified Translation Services - FAQ

• Why do I need certified translation services?

  You may need certified translation services when dealing with legal, governmental, or academic institutions that require proof of the translation's accuracy and authenticity. For instance, if you're applying for a visa, applying for a mortgage, enrolling in a foreign school, or submitting documents for a court case, the receiving party will require a certified translation to ensure the document's integrity.

• What types of documents require certified translation?

  Documents that commonly require certified translation include birth certificates, marriage certificates, death certificates, divorce papers, diplomas, transcripts, legal contracts, bank statements, and medical records. Any document that needs to be officially recognised by an organisation in a different language will typically require a certified translation.

• How much does certified translation cost?

  The cost of certified translation can vary based on factors such as the number of pages, the formatting requirements, the type of certification required, the language pair, and the turnaround time. Certified translations are typically priced higher than regular translations due to the additional certification process and the need for qualified translators.

• How long does the certified translation process take?

  We typically prepare certified translations within 1-3 working days. However, if the client has an urgent request, we will do our best to complete the translation more quickly. To help us complete the translations as fast as possible, please make sure that there are no mistakes in the original document. We are obligated to translate the document exactly as it is, even if the original text is “incorrect”. Furthermore, please make sure the scanned copy of your document is clear for our translators to read. We are not able to translate anything that is blurred or hidden from view.

• Can you translate handwritten documents?

  Yes, we can translate handwritten documents, though the quality and legibility of the handwriting may impact the translation process. For best results, providing a high-resolution scan of the document is recommended. If there are any sections that are difficult to read, we will clarify this with you before proceeding.

• Are certified translations valid forever?

  Certified translations do not have an expiry date. However, the context in which they are used may affect their validity. For instance, certain institutions or governmental bodies may have specific requirements regarding foreign currency conversions. If you're submitting a past translation, we suggest checking with the receiving party to make sure it still meets their current requirements.

• Can I translate and certify the document myself?

  Generally speaking, translating and certifying your own translation is not accepted. A neutral and qualified translator or translation agency is normally required to attest to the accuracy and completeness of the translation. Similarly, translations done by family or friends are also not accepted, as they could be perceived as biased or lacking the necessary professional qualifications.

• Can a certified translation be rejected?

  Yes, a certified translation can be rejected if it doesn't meet the specific requirements of the receiving party. Reasons for rejection may include inaccuracies in the translation, failure to follow required formatting, lack of proper certification, or the use of an unqualified translator. To minimise the risk of rejection, we recommend choosing a reputable translation company with experience in handling similar documents.