Documents & Certification · Global
What is a certified translation?
Simple answer
A certified translation is a translation that includes a formal statement (and often a stamp or signature) confirming it is a complete and accurate translation of the original. Exact rules for who may certify depend on the receiving authority.
What it means
Immigration offices usually need documents in a language they can read. “Certified”, “sworn”, or “official” translation each has a local meaning — they are not universal labels.
What you may need to do
Check whether the destination accepts any professional translator, a sworn translator list, an embassy translator, or a notary-backed translation. Keep the original-language document with the translation.
Country / visa warning
Do not assume one country’s “certified translation” format is accepted by another. Some routes also ask for the translation to be notarised or apostilled after it is prepared.
Next action
Check your route checklist for language and translator rules before commissioning a translation.
Government source: www.hcch.net/en/instruments/conventions/specialised-sections/apostille/ · Reviewed
Vetted panel partners · Information reviewed with regional partners · Appointed panel reviews and submits where appointed