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Official Translation Services UK
Translation Services UK is a certified translation service, offering both translation and certification within a wide range of different translation categories.
As a translation agency, we have years of professional experience within the translation industry, with our certified translation services delivering consistently high-quality official translations by a native speaker and professional translator.
We also ensure that our accurate translations can be translated into over 150 languages and dialects from around the world.
ISO certified, our experienced team of translators will have the expertise and experience in the sector relating to your official text as well as being a native of the target language. As such, they will not only have a deep understanding of the technical terminology used within the document, but they will also be able to ensure that it sounds natural within the target language.
So no matter the official document, when it comes to your legal documents and medical documents, your birth certificate and your marriage certificate, you need a certified translation service to get your documents translated.
And that’s where we come in.
Allow Translation Services UK’s efficient service to help guide you through the entire process of your translation needs.
What is an official translation service?
An official translation is a translated document that has been certified by a professional translator or a translation company. This kind of translation is a translation that is usually needed when submitting documents to government offices, courts, or other official institutions where accuracy of the translation and authenticity are crucial.
Regardless of the type of your document, it’s important to choose a reputable translation agent or agency to ensure the highest quality and accuracy. In the UK, one might go through the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) to find such an agency.
Here is an example table showcasing different types of official translations:
| Type | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Certified Translation | A translation accompanied by a signed statement attesting its accuracy and completeness. Often used for legal documents, immigration papers, or academic transcripts | Often used for legal documents, immigration papers, or academic transcripts |
| Sworn Translation | A translation performed by a translator who has taken an oath before a public authority | Usually required for official documents like birth certificates or marriage licenses |
| Notarized Translation | A translation that has been notarized by a notary public | Notarized translation is required for legal contracts or agreements |
| Legalised (Apostille) Translation | A translation endorsed with an apostille certificate | Apostilles are necessary when presenting documents from one country to another under The 1961 Hague Convention |
By understanding the different types of official translations and how they can be certified, you can confidently navigate the process and ensure that your translated documents meet all necessary requirements.
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Types Of Official Translation Services
Certified Translations
A certified translation is a legalised translation that typically refers to an officially recognised translation of a document completed by an accredited language provider and accompanied by a legal certification in the form of a stamp.
However, there may be times where a certified translation isn’t enough, and another type of official translation is required. This may be a sworn translation, notarised translation, legalised translation, a translation signed by a notary public, you may even require an apostille, for example. Scroll down to find out more about some of the different official translation types, as knowing exactly which type of certification your documents need is extremely important and something that our translation services can help guide you with throughout your translation journey.
Notarised Translation
For notarised translation, the certified translator swears on oath before a notary public that the official document translation has been completed by them. The notary public does not confirm the notarised translation quality, only the identity of the certified translator. The translation is then officially certified by the notary public.
Generally speaking, many official documents won’t be legally recognised without a notarised translation. This is especially the case when original documents, such as marriage certificates, academic certificates, government documents, and bank statements, are to be given to government agencies in a foreign country and need to be made ‘official’. This process also covers accountability in terms of the translator’s details.
As such, a notarised translation usually means one of two things. It can mean that the translation either carries a declaration by the translator that has been signed by the Notary, or that it carries a declaration by the Notary Public concerning the original document and the translation.
Sworn Translations
Sworn translation is completed by translators who have either a specific qualification or a degree in translating. Sworn translators are accredited by government entities or local courts and the translation is regarded as having formal status by the relevant authorities. It may also require a stamp from a court or public office.
Sworn translations are very similar to notarised translations, but just as important when getting your translations certified for international use. The difference, however, is that this form of certified translation means that your translated documents do not have to be signed in front of a notary public, and instead is legally certified with the seal of sworn translators.
For legal purposes, sworn translations require the testimony of the linguist, confirming that they have carried out the translation and truthfully communicated the translation. Usually, a sworn translation may be required by governments and organisations abroad.
Apostille Translations
Apostille translation, whilst not guaranteeing the translation quality but instead that it has a genuine stamp, is a legal process that verifies the authenticity of a translation and its signature completed within the UK and makes it admissible in all countries that signed the Hague Convention of 1961.
This form of UK certified translation also requires authentication from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office as personal documents are sent to foreign countries. It is the responsibility of the UK Foreign Office to legalise translations by confirming that the signature, stamp or seal of sworn translators, as well as their contact details, are legitimate.
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FAQ
Some of the key features of official translation include accuracy, certification, and adherence to specific formatting requirements.
Accuracy of the translation is essential in official translations as they need to convey the exact meaning of the source document without any errors or misinterpretations. Translators must ensure that they use the appropriate terminology and maintain consistency throughout the translation process. Additionally, official translations should be certified by a professional translator or translation company that can vouch for their accuracy and authenticity.
Certification adds an extra layer of credibility to an official translation. It involves a statement from the translator’s credentials or agency affirming that the translation is accurate and complete. This certification, dated and includes details about the translator’s qualifications, contact information, and signature, ensures that the translated document can be trusted by government authorities or other institutions requiring it.
To paint a clearer picture of these features, here is a table showcasing them:
| Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Accuracy | Official translations must accurately convey the meaning of the source document without any errors or misinterpretations. Consistency in terminology is crucial in maintaining accuracy throughout the entire translation process. |
| Certification | Official translations need to be certified by a professional translator or translation agency who can verify its accuracy and completeness. The certification includes details about qualifications, contact information, and a signature from the certifying party. |
| Formatting | Official translations often have specific formatting requirements set by government agencies, courts, universities, or other institutions requesting them. Translators must adhere to these formatting guidelines while ensuring clarity and readability in their work. |
How do I get an official translation of a document in the UK?
The four key steps to obtaining an official translation of a document are listed below:
- Find a professional translation provider: Start by searching for a professional translator who specializes in official translations. Look for translators who are certified or accredited by recognized translation organizations, such as the Institute of Translation and Interpreting (ITI) or the National Accrediting Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI).
- Contact the translator: Once you’ve found a suitable translator, reach out to them and provide them with details about your document and your translation needs.
- Agree on terms and conditions: Discuss important details with the translator, such as deadlines, confidentiality agreements, and payment terms. Make sure to clarify whether you require any additional services, such as notarization or legalization of the translated document.
- Receive your official translation: After agreeing on all terms and conditions, the translator will commence work on your document. Once completed, they’ll deliver the translated document to you either electronically or in hard copy form, depending on your preference.
Who can do official translation?
To find someone who can provide you with an authorized translation, search for a professional translator certified by recognized organizations. These organizations, such as the Institute of Translation and Interpreting (ITI), the Association of Translation Companies (ATC) or the National Accrediting Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI), ensure that their members meet specific standards and adhere to a code of professional conduct. By choosing a translator affiliated with these organizations, you can have confidence in the quality and accuracy of their work.
In addition to certification, it is important to consider the language pair required for your translation. Not all translators are proficient in all languages, so make sure to find someone who specializes in both the source and target languages of your document. This will ensure that they have a deep understanding of both languages’ nuances and cultural contexts.
What is the official translation of legal documents?
The official translation of legal documents refers to the process of translating important legal texts, such as contracts, court judgments, or certificates, from one language to another. It is crucial to have these translations done correctly as they often hold significant legal implications.
To ensure the accuracy and validity of your official translation of legal documents, choose a translator or agency specializing in legal translations, look for certified translation services, and verify their credentials and qualifications.
What is the importance of an official translation of a certificate?
An accurate translation provides a certified version of your documents that can be recognized by government authorities and other institutions in a foreign country or legal system. It ensures that all parties involved can understand the content accurately and make informed decisions based on the accurate translation of the original. By obtaining a legally valid translation, you are demonstrating respect for local laws and regulations while also safeguarding yourself against any potential misunderstandings or misinterpretations.
Additionally, having official translations can expedite various processes by eliminating language barriers and streamlining communication between different parties involved in legal procedures.
How do I find an official translation office near me?
The three ways you can find an official translation office near you are listed below:
- Online search: Use search engines to look for leading translation offices in your area.
- Recommendations from friends and colleagues: Reach out to people you know who have previously used official translation services.
- Professional associations: Check if there are any professional translator or interpreter associations in your country or region. These associations, like the ATC (Association of Translation Companies), ITI (Institute of Translation & Interpreting), or NAATI (National Accrediting Authority for Translators and Interpreters), often have directories of certified translators and interpreters, including those who offer official translation services.
How much does an official translator cost in UK?
The price can vary depending on several factors. Firstly, the complexity and length of the translation of documents will play a role in determining the cost. More complex or longer documents may require more time and effort, thus resulting in higher fees.
Additionally, the language pair involved in the translation can also impact the price. Translating from or into less commonly spoken languages may incur higher costs due to a smaller pool of available linguistic experts in those languages.
Furthermore, different offices may have their own pricing structures and policies. Some might charge per word or per page, while others may have fixed rates for certain types of documents. The pricing structures can vary from country to country.
Contact Us Today
So, looking for a translations agency to help you with your certified document translations?
Then look no further than Translation Services UK to get that translated document of yours officially certified by our friendly team of professional translators.
Contact us today with your translation requirements and we can have a quote delivered to you within 60 minutes or less.