
"Certified translation" is a term that confuses a lot of people, and for good reason.
Depending on the country, it can mean very different things, and the process of obtaining one varies widely. If you’re in the UK and need a certified translation of your documents, you may find conflicting information online or struggle to understand what is actually required. In this guide, I aim to clarify exactly what a certified translation means in the UK, how it differs from other countries, and what you need to do to obtain one.
What IS a “Certified Translation” in the UK?
In a nutshell, a certified translation is a complete and accurate translation of a document, accompanied by a formal certification statement from a qualified translator or translation company. This certification confirms that the translation is a true and faithful representation of the original document. Certified translations are often required for legal, academic, and official purposes, including visa and immigration applications, university admissions, court proceedings, and business contracts.
Unlike some countries, the UK does not have a government body that officially certifies translators or translations. Instead, certified translations must be carried out by a professional translator who is a member of a recognised industry body or by an accredited translation company.
The Chartered Institute of Linguists (CIOL) and the Institute of Translation & Interpreting (ITI) are the two leading professional associations for translators in the UK. Their members are recognised as qualified professionals capable of providing certified translations that meet UK legal and institutional requirements.
In summary, certified translations in the UK can be provided by:
CIOL professional members, including Members (MCIL Translator), Fellows (FCIL Translator), and Chartered Linguists (Translator).
ITI-qualified translators, such as MITI (Qualified Member) and FITI (Fellow Member) translators.
Accredited translation companies affiliated with the Association of Translation Companies (ATC) or other recognised industry bodies.
Certified vs. Sworn Translations: What’s the Difference?
A common source of confusion is the distinction between certified and sworn translations. Many people assume that these terms are interchangeable, but in reality, sworn translations do NOT exist in the UK!
In countries such as France, Spain, Germany, and Italy, sworn translations are carried out by translators who have taken an oath before a court or government body. Their translations are legally recognised without requiring additional certification. However, in the UK, there is no equivalent system. Instead, a translation is considered certified when it is accompanied by a formal declaration from the translator, confirming its accuracy and authenticity.
For those who need to submit translations to overseas authorities, it is essential to check their specific requirements. Some countries may request notarisation or legalisation in addition to certification. Notarisation involves a notary public attesting to the translator’s identity, while legalisation, often referred to as an Apostille, is a process that ensures the translation is recognised internationally.
What Does a Certified Translation in the UK Involve?
A properly certified translation in the UK must include the translated text, a certification statement confirming the accuracy of the translation, the translator’s signature, date, and contact details, as well as their professional credentials.
Without these elements, the translation may not be accepted by official bodies such as the Home Office, universities, or courts. Some institutions may also require the translation to be printed and physically signed, while others accept digital versions.
It is always advisable to check specific submission requirements before proceeding.
How to Get a Certified Translation in the UK
The process of obtaining a certified translation in the UK is straightforward, but ensuring that you work with a qualified translator or an accredited translation company is essential. The first step is to find a professional translator who is a member of a recognised body such as CIOL or ITI; alternatively, work with an accredited translation company; otherwise, your translation cannot be certified.
Once you have identified a suitable translator or company, you will need to provide a clear, scanned copy of the document you need translated. In most cases, the original document is not required, and a high-quality digital copy will suffice.
The translator/ the company will then complete the translation, ensuring that it is accurate and formatted correctly to reflect the original document. They will then provide a signed certification statement confirming the translation’s authenticity.
Upon completion, you will receive your certified translation in either digital or printed form, depending on your needs. As mentioned above, some authorities require a printed, signed version, while others accept electronic copies. If you are unsure, it is best to confirm in advance to avoid delays.
Need a Certified Translation? Get in Touch!
If you need a certified translation for legal, academic, or immigration purposes, I can help!
As a full CIOL member, I provide certified translations that meet UK requirements and are accepted by official institutions. Whether you need a birth certificate translated for a visa application or an academic transcript for university admission, I’ll ensure that your translation is accurate, professionally certified, and delivered on time.
To discuss your requirements or request a quote, get in touch today.
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