FAQ: Your questions already answered
The translation of an official document which has been prepared by a sworn translator and marked with a short note of authentication, their seal and signature. Such a translation is considered to be certified officially because the translator has given a legally binding assurance of the authenticity of the translation.
You need a certified translation for official documents, certificates, diplomas, attestations as well as for letters that have to be presented to authorities or have to be recognized in Germany or abroad.
Examples: School and university certificates, driving licences, birth and marriage certificates.
A non-certified translation is sufficient if the translation is only for the purpose of understanding the content of the document and does not need to be handed over to authorities, courts and other public institutions. Such documents can be translated by any translator, sworn or not.
Important note: In some cases, a so-called double certification is required. In this case the translator takes the certified translation to the court or a public office to get it signed by an authorised person, i.e. to certify it again.
There are different types of double certification, the two most common forms being apostille and legalisation.
Examples: School and university certificates, driving licences, birth and marriage certificates.
A non-certified translation is sufficient if the translation is only for the purpose of understanding the content of the document and does not need to be handed over to authorities, courts and other public institutions. Such documents can be translated by any translator, sworn or not.
Important note: In some cases, a so-called double certification is required. In this case the translator takes the certified translation to the court or a public office to get it signed by an authorised person, i.e. to certify it again.
There are different types of double certification, the two most common forms being apostille and legalisation.
Your certified translation will be prepared by one of our professional and court-certified translators so that it is legally binding.
When carrying out such a translation, great importance is attached to cultural differences and the respective translators are familiar with the legal systems of the countries concerned (country of issue of the original document and target country) and have many years of experience in the legal field.
When carrying out such a translation, great importance is attached to cultural differences and the respective translators are familiar with the legal systems of the countries concerned (country of issue of the original document and target country) and have many years of experience in the legal field.
No, that is not necessary. You can scan or photograph the document and then upload it directly here on our site. We will then send you the translated and certified document by registered post.
In the case of a certified translation, in addition to the cost of the translation as such, there are "extra costs" for the certification by the translator (authentication note, stamp, signature) and postal fees.
As a rule, the certified translation is valid for as long as the original document on which it is based. If the original document has a limited validity, this validity is also transferred to the translation. In addition, it is sometimes required that the translation not be older than 6 months.
After you have ordered the translation, we will start processing it. When the translation is complete, we will upload it as a PDF for your approval.
If you are satisfied with the translation, confirm this with Release translation. We will then send the document by registered mail.
If you are satisfied with the translation, confirm this with Release translation. We will then send the document by registered mail.
The date indicated in the price calculator refers to the date of dispatch. In the case of standard dispatch, the document is uploaded by the translator in the customer area within 3 to 5 working days. In the case of certified translations, the document will be sent by post after you approve the translation. With express delivery, the document is translated and uploaded or sent within 2 to 3 working days. Please note that the indicated delivery date corresponds to our dispatch date. We cannot influence possible delays caused by the postal service. Translations without certification are sent electronically via our customer area. As soon as the finished translation is available, you will be notified by e-mail. The duration of the translation depends on the volume. Some translations are ready after a few hours.
An apostille is a note that confirms the authenticity of the signature. It also confirms that an official document may be issued, which must be presented in the original.
The authority from which the document originates can usually tell you the competent apostille authority. You can also find information on the website of the competent German mission abroad. You can find another source of information here: Hague Conference
An apostille is subject to a fee. Usually there are longer waiting periods.
An apostille is subject to a fee. Usually there are longer waiting periods.
A legalisation is a note that confirms the authenticity of the signature. It also confirms that an authentic document may be issued, which must be presented in the original.
A legalisation can be obtained from the diplomatic mission or consulate of the country concerned.
Both documents have the same purpose. It depends on the agreements between Germany and the respective country whether an apostille or legalisation is required.