Getting Certified Translation Documents can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. If you’re looking to get a certified translation of an official document, here are the steps to follow. Here they are in detail
Planning is the very first in getting a Certified Translation Document
- Check if the document is certified. Certified Translation Documents are certified by an official notary, who then provides you with a stamp and signature as proof of certification. If your document is not certified, it may be possible to certify it yourself by paying for the service and getting an apostille from the country where it was originally issued.
- Get your document translated into English or the language of your choice by someone who has been approved by their government to be a translator. The translator will need to provide you with certification that they are authorized to translate documents in the language they are translating from and proof that they have translated this type of document before.
- Choose how many copies you want to be made (usually three).
- Pay for certified translations to be made in order for them to become certified translations; some offices may require payment upfront but others allow payments on delivery when all of the translations have been completed.
- Some organizations will only accept certified translations; make sure that any organization requesting a Certified Translation Document understands what level of certification you are offering them so there are no misunderstandings later on down the line!
Get professional help
- Find a professional translation agency and contact them about your project.
- You can find any translator online and visit their website and check testimonials.
- Provide them with the documents you would like translated and tell them the specifics of your project.
- Ask about costs, turnaround time, document formats, and types of translations they offer.
- Agree on all aspects of the project, as well as payment terms with an accepted invoice from the company’s legal department.
- Get a copy of their certificate authenticating who they are and that they were appointed to work on this project before sending any sensitive documents.
- Once you receive your Certified Translation Document, store it in a safe place.
- It’s up to the translator whether or not they sign their name on the certificate; but if they do not sign, make sure you keep their information secure.
- Enjoy receiving your Certified Translation Document!
Choose your translation agency
A Certified Translation Document is the best way to make sure that your translations are accurate and that all of the details are correct. This can help you get full credit on assignments, travel with ease, or protect yourself from things like identity theft. When you need one, you must work with a reliable translator and agency who will follow all the necessary steps.
That’s why I compiled this step-by-step guide to help guide you through the process of getting your document translated.
Be aware of costs
In most cases, Certified Translation Documents require an original copy of the document and a notarized copy as well. Make sure that you know how much time it will take for your documents to be translated because there may be rush charges depending on how soon you need them. You also want to find out how much each page of text translates into so that you don’t end up paying more than expected.
Gather all the documents you will send with your translation request
You’ll need:
- A photocopy of your birth certificate, driver’s license, or passport.
- The original document for translation.
- A list of who will be receiving certified translations (in the case of legal documents).
- The address where you want the copies sent.
- Return your request with all required materials and payment information to the company.
- You can expect it to take two weeks for your certified translation to arrive at your doorstep, though this may vary depending on location.
- Send the Certified Translation Document via USPS Priority Mail with Delivery Confirmation ($6-$25) so that you know when it arrives at its destination (remembering, if applicable, not to send it first class).
- Now you have a certified translation of any important documents!
Submit your original document
The following steps will help you get a Certified Translation Document:
- Gather your original documents, including the ones that need translation.
- Be sure to have originals and copies of everything on hand.
- Determine what language you want your translated document(s) to be written in and make an appointment with a translator.
- Bring your original document(s) for them to translate and write down what language it is translated into and sign off on the certificate of accuracy (for translations).
- Have the translator fill out their contact information on the certificate of accuracy form and give it back to you.
- Take the signed copy of the certificate of accuracy form to any notary public or court clerk’s office.
- Present a valid photo ID to prove your identity and pay the notary public or court clerk officer fee by cash or credit card.
- Fill out any additional forms required by that location. Such as making a notarized statement in some states, if necessary. Then leave with certified copies of all signed forms and ID used when submitting the original document(s).
- Give one copy of each signed certification form to the person who originally submitted the original document for translation. Plus any other copies needed as stipulated on those certificates; keep one copy for yourself. Or any other party who needs it without having to go through this process again; keep at least one copy as a backup.
Request an estimate from your chosen translation agency
The first step is to request an estimate from your chosen translation agency, which will usually be free of charge.
- Sign up for an account with the translation agency, providing all necessary information and upload any documents that may be required.
- When you receive a quote from the company and decide on the type of service you want (in-person or not).
- You can then contact the company with any questions you might have about your order. As well as upload any other documents that are required by the company.
- You can also choose how many copies of your document you would like and what language(s). It will be translated into.
- To get a Certified Translation Document, you will need to provide a letter requesting certification along with the original copy of the translated document. This letter should include your name and address. As well as details about the specific certification you require.
- Some agencies provide this service for an additional fee. Others will only do so if they agree to do so before completing your order.
- Your final steps are receiving confirmation from the company that your request has been fulfilled. Following their instructions for delivery if applicable, and finally paying them using whichever method they allow.
Review and sign the final documents
Congratulations! You’ve completed the process of getting your Certified Translation Document. Now it’s time for you to review and sign the final documents. Read each document carefully before signing. As these forms will help you avoid any misunderstandings. When it comes time to have your Certified Translation Document officially registered.
Remember that this is an important step, so be sure to take your time and read through everything thoroughly. Once you’ve signed off on all the necessary documents, congratulations! Your Certified Translation Document is finished and ready to use in any situation that requires official certification.
