Certified translations are high quality translations that carry a written confirmation assuring the truthfulness and accuracy of the translation. Along with the confirmation there are other details which are also mentioned on the translated document. These include the date of the translation, the name and contact details of the translator or a representative of the translation company.
The German Language
German along with Afrikaans, English, Dutch, Scots and Frisian, belong to West Germanic family of languages. The common feature which all these languages share are the many common lexemes, which is a unit of lexical meaning that exists regardless of the number of inflectional endings. Widely spoken in Central Europe, German is the official or co-official language in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, South Tyrol (Italy), the German-speaking Community of Belgium and Liechtenstein. It is also one of the three official languages of Luxembourg.
When are certified translations required?
For most general purposes regular translations are sufficient, it is only when the translated document is required for official or government use that you would need to obtain a certified translation.
A certified translation will satisfy UK organizations such as the Home Office, consulates, insurance companies, academic and educational institutions, UK Naric, UK employers, banks and the Passport Agency. Legalization requirements do however vary from institution to institution and from country to country, so if you are in any doubt as to what type of certification is necessary for your document you should contact the relevant institution directly.
Need certified translations for countries other than the UK? Here are few things you should know
If the translation is to be used outside the UK it may also require certification by a Notary Public and legalization by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) as well as translation. Please contact your local consular service for more information to ensure you request the correct level of certification.
For translations that will be sent abroad, it is sometimes necessary to have the declaration signed in the presence of a Notary Public, depending on the purpose of the translation and the country where it will be used.
In some countries, such as Brazil, translators undergo a selective examination process or are appointed by a court or Government authority to be recognized as “sworn translators”. In such cases, a translation by a sworn translator is an official document in its own right and no further certification or legalization is usually required for official use in that country.