What Is a Certified Translation?
According to the American Translators Association, "A certified translation is a translation accompanied by a signed statement attesting that the translation is accurate and complete to the best of the translator's knowledge and ability." This is also known as a "Certificate of Accuracy" and is prepared by the translator or language solutions partner that translated the document.
In many cases, independent translators are unable to provide certified translations due to the additional time and expense of quality control. Language solutions partners are better equipped to handle certified translations because of their extensive quality assurance processes.
Certified translation vs. certified translator
A certified translator is an individual who has passed a certification exam to verify their professional translation skills in a certain language. A "certified translation" is the signed statement verifying translation accuracy, and it can be prepared by non-certified translators, certified translators, or a language solutions partner.
Certified translation vs. notarized translation
A notarized translation is strictly about following official protocol: the notary confirms the translator's identity, has them swear under oath that the translation is accurate and sign an affidavit, then signs and stamps the document with an official seal. Documents that often require notarized translations include school transcripts and foreign diplomas.
When Is a Certified Translation Required?
Most legal documents will require a certified translation, given the highly technical nature of the content and the consequences of a mistranslation. Examples include affidavits, trial transcripts, contracts, or anything that must pass through a legal or government entity. Official government documents, such as a birth certificate, also need certified translations.
For example, when handling immigration cases with USCIS, all foreign documents must be certified translations into English. See our immigration services.
When is a certified translation not required?
Unofficial documents like personal writing, marketing materials and web content do not require certification, but should still be translated by a reputable provider.