What are certified translations?

The Linguarum team provides quick, professional certifications of translations in 56 languages. The translations are carried out by native-speaking specialists who are state-certified, publicly appointed, and sworn.

When do I need a sworn translation or interpreting service?

Based on our experience, certification is necessary whenever you need to translate certificates or written documents for official reasons or for use in legal contexts and with authorities (e.g. in court, at the registry office). The official name varies depending on where you need to use your translation, including:

• certified translators
• sworn translators
• authorised translators
• publicly appointed translators

Whatever they’re called, all of these linguists have taken a general oath before a court or government authority.

What kind of certification do I need?

Always check with the relevant authority whether you need a translation certified by a translator who has been sworn in your country. The exact name of the certification stamp can vary by country and even between different parts of the same country, but it always certifies that the translation provided is complete and correct.

An apostille is an additional accreditation by a notary, who certifies that the translator is qualified to certify translations. This involves significant costs.

How does a certified translation process work?

• You send the document to be translated by post, either the original or a notarised copy. Of course, you can also do this by fax or by scanning the document. In this case, though, we require your assurance (by post, fax or email) that you have the original document in your possession. Only then can the official document be translated and certified.
• The translation is certified by a translator who has been sworn or authorised by a court.
• The translator’s certification confirms that the translation is correct and complete. This is done with an official stamp, a personal declaration and the translator’s signature. The most important thing is the original signature on the translator – only the original is legally valid.
• This is why certified translations cannot be copied without losing their legal status. If you require multiple copies, you will need to order multiple original copies of the translation.
• Before we send you the certified translation (original copy), you will receive a scanned version of it.
• Once you give us your approval, we will then post it to your address. We will staple and seal the stamped and signed translation to the scan you sent us.

Is it possible to translate and certify a scanned document (e.g. a certificate)?

Of course it’s also possible to certify a copy of a document. In this case, the footer will include the following note: ‘Certified translation of the attached copy’. The original text (a scan) will be stapled to the translated text, signed, stamped, and sent by post.

Please confirm what you need for your individual case with the relevant authority.

What is an apostille or legalisation?

If you want to use your certificates outside Germany, they will often only be recognised if their authenticity has been verified via certification. The stamp of the issuing authority alone will not be recognised. Two international certifications are available: apostilles and legalisation.

Both forms confirm the authenticity of foreign certificates. A legalisation is provided by consular staff in the country where the certificate is going to be used, which involves higher costs.

Apostilles are provided by public authorities and are simplified versions of legalisations. However, they can only be recognised if both countries are signatories of the 1961 Hague Convention Abolishing the Requirement of Legalisation for Foreign Public Documents.

How much does a certified translation cost?

Just like with translating standard documents, the price here is based on various factors, including language combination, urgency, and the size and specificity of the text to be translated. Special features of the layout may also be relevant for official documents in particular. This makes it very difficult to give a general idea of the price to expect, which is why we consult our specialist translators for projects involving certification before providing you with a quote.

Why is pre-release approval useful before sending certified translations?

Before you receive your certified translation by post, the translator will send the finished translation by email. This gives you the chance to check the translation, particularly with regard to names, dates and other important information. As soon as you give the translator your approval, they will print the translation and sign and stamp it, then send it by post. This is not obligatory, but it is a helpful step to avoid more work applying revisions later on.

Get in touch with us

Linguarum is more than just your translation provider. We are your partner on your path to a global presence. Let’s conquer your international markets together!

• Tel: Give us a call on +44 20 3139 9070 – our friendly team will be happy to help you from Monday to Friday between 07:00 and 16:00 (UK time).
• Email: Send your enquiries to [email protected] and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
• Online: Use our intuitive online price calculator. Upload your files, choose the languages you need, and you’ll get an accurate quote in a matter of minutes.

Now’s the time to take the next step!

• Get a quote: Request a tailored quote today. We’re ready to help you with top-quality translations and effective SEO.
• Free sample translation: Try out our services with no obligation. Simply send us a short text, and we’ll send you a free sample translation.
• Arrange an initial chat: Let’s have a no-obligation chat to find out how we can help you reach your global goals.

We can’t wait to accompany you on your path to international expansion and make sure your message is heard around the world.

Get in touch with us today and take the first step towards your global market presence!