When it comes to document translation services, there are several options, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. One of these translation services is certified translation. But what is a certified translation service? It is a specialized service that not only translates your documents but also provides a certificate of accuracy, usually stamped and signed by the translation service or translator. This is crucial for official purposes, such as legal proceedings or government applications, but not for creative projects like those for marketing translation.

Whether or not translated documents need to be certified depends on the requirements of the institution you are submitting them to. Let’s find out more about this service and its requirements.

What Qualifies as a Certified Translation?

To qualify as a certified translation, the translated document must be accompanied by a signed statement from the translator or translation service attesting to the accuracy and completeness of the translation.

Who Can Certify Translation Documents?

Technically, anyone can certify a translation by providing a signed statement that they are competent in both the source and target languages and that the translation is accurate. However, most official bodies require a certified translation from a recognized service. Generally, the translator or translation service provides a signed certificate accompanying the translated document. Some institutions may require that the translator be certified by a professional organization.

How do I Get a Certified Translation of a Document?

To get a certified translation of a document, you may approach a professional translator or a translation agency and specifically ask for a certified translation. They will provide you with a translated document and a certificate of accuracy. To certify a translation to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), you may also need to notarize the certified translation. This translation must be accompanied by a statement certifying that the translation is accurate and complete.

Certified Translation Statement 

A certified translation statement is a document that accompanies a certified translation, affirming the accuracy and completeness of the translation. 

Certified Translation for Legal Proceedings 

Regarding translation documents, the person or service certifying the translation is of utmost importance. Here are some of the proceedings that use certified translation the most. 

Translation of Documents for Immigration 

Document translation services for immigration often provide certified translations that meet the specific requirements of immigration authorities, such as USCIS. 

One of the documents that requires certified translation the most is the birth certificate. Translating a birth certificate is a common requirement for immigration and other legal processes. However, you have to keep in mind that the translation of a birth certificate involves not only a certified translation but also notarization by a notary public. 

Who Can Certify Translation for USCIS? 

For translations submitted to USCIS, the translator must be competent to translate and certify that the translation is accurate to the best of their knowledge. 

USCIS Approved Translators Near Me 

To find USCIS-approved translators or agencies near you, search online directories or ask for recommendations from people who have undergone similar processes. Traduality is an excellent choice as well. It is a platform that allows you to send job requests to translators worldwide, including certified translators approved by USCIS.

What is the Difference Between Certified and Notarized Translation?

Now, you may be wondering about the differences between a certified and notarized certification. This lies in the level of verification. A certified translation comes with a certificate of accuracy, while a notarized translation includes the certificate and a notary stamp. It involves a notary public who verifies the identity of the translator. This may not be complicated to understand, but we recommend you read our article about notarized translations online, where we explain in deep detail about this translation service and its difference from certified translation. 

How Much Does an Official Translator Cost? 

The cost of an official translator can vary based on the complexity and length of the document. It’s best to get a quote from multiple services to compare prices. Many of these services offer online notarization, where the notary public verifies your identity via video call. 

Can I get free certified translations? 

We have seen this question a lot, but while many free translation services are available online, they are not suitable for official or legal purposes. 

After learning more about certified translation, you might have realized its importance in various legal and official procedures and the differences between certified and notarized translation services. From immigration to academic applications, the type of translation you need can differ, so always check the institution’s requirements and choose a reputable translation service to avoid delays, additional costs, and even the rejection of your application.

Traduality Offers Clients Access to Thousands of Certified Translators

Using a reputable translation service familiar with USCIS requirements is always advisable. So, if you’re looking for reliable and efficient certified and notarized translation services, consider creating a project request with Traduality. Traduality has everything you need to succeed; create your first project today and find vetted translators, or book a meeting with us to learn more about your specific needs.  

Updated 2/21/2024.