If you’ve been asked to provide a certified translation for an official document, you might be feeling unsure about what that actually means or how to get it done properly. Whether it’s for a visa application, legal paperwork, or academic purposes, navigating the process can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time.
At LITS, we make certified translations simple and stress-free. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly what a certified translation is, when you need one, and how to ensure your documents meet official standards.
What Are Certified Translations in the UK?
A certified translation is an official, legally recognised translation of a document, accompanied by a signed statement confirming that the translation is accurate and complete. This certification ensures that the translated document holds the same legal weight as the original in formal settings.
The certification statement typically includes:
- A declaration of accuracy: Confirmation that the translation is “a true and accurate representation of the original document.”
- The date of translation.
- The translator’s or translation agency’s name, contact details, and signature.
- Details of the translator’s qualifications or professional memberships (such as CIOL, ITI, or ATC).
Certified translations are commonly required for official purposes where accuracy is critical, including legal proceedings, immigration applications, academic admissions, business transactions, and more.
Who can provide a Certified Translation?
In the UK, a certified translation must be completed by an independent, qualified translator or a professional translation agency. Self-certifying your own translation is not accepted by most official bodies, including government agencies, courts, and universities. This requirement ensures that translations are accurate and unbiased, whilst also meeting formal legal standards.
For official use, it’s highly recommended to use a professional translator affiliated with recognised bodies such as the:
- Chartered Institute of Linguists (CIOL)
- Institute of Translation and Interpreting (ITI)
- Association of Translation Companies (ATC)
At LITS, we are proud to be a certified translation provider, working with expert linguists who are accredited by these leading industry bodies. This means you can trust us to deliver high-quality, legally recognised translations that meet the strict standards required by UK and international authorities. Contact us now for certified translations from qualified experts trusted by UK authorities and institutions.
Why Choosing a Professional Translator Matters
- Accreditation: Members of recognised bodies like the CIOL, ITI, or ATC adhere to strict standards of quality and ethics, standards that can only be provided by a qualified translator.
- Experience: Accredited translators have the expertise and experience to ensure accuracy, especially for complex or legal documents.
- Peace of Mind: Organisations are more likely to accept certified translations from reputable professionals, reducing the risk of rejection.
Pro Tip: For UKVI applications, using an accredited translator is crucial to ensure your documents meet their stringent requirements.
If you need help in getting a certified translation, get in touch with our accredited professionals at LITS today.
How to Get a Certified Translation
If you’ve never needed a certified translation before, the process might seem unclear. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand how to get your documents professionally translated and certified.
1. Choose a Qualified Translator or Agency
In the UK, certified translations must be completed by a qualified, independent translator or a professional translation agency like us here at LITS. It’s important to work with professionals affiliated with recognised bodies like the CIOL, the ITI, or the ATC to ensure the translation meets official standards.
At LITS, we provide certified translations that meet the legal requirements of UK authorities and international organisations. Contact us now to discuss your needs.
2. Prepare and Submit Your Documents
Most agencies accept digital copies of your documents. This typically includes clear, high-resolution scans or photos of the original documents. If you’re unsure about the format, check the agency’s submission guidelines.
- Accepted formats usually include PDFs, JPEGs, and Word documents.
- Ensure all pages are included and legible.
At LITS, you can securely upload your documents through our website or email them directly to us.
3. Receive a Quote
After reviewing your documents, the translator or agency will provide a detailed quote. The cost depends on:
- Document length and complexity
- Required turnaround time
- Additional services (e.g., notarisation or apostille services)
It’s a good idea to confirm the timeline and any extra fees upfront.
4. Translation and Certification
Once you approve the quote, the translation will begin. After completion, the translator or agency will attach a certification statement confirming the translation is accurate and complete. For documents being used internationally, you may also need notarisation or an apostille.
Here at LITS, we offer both standard certified translations and additional legal certifications if required.
5. Delivery and Review
Certified translations are typically delivered as a PDF via email. If a physical copy is required, many agencies can post the document to you. It’s important to review the final translation to make sure everything is correct before submitting it to the requesting organisation.
Need a hard copy? At LITS, we offer postal delivery options upon request.
When Do You Need a Certified Translation
Certified translations are required in various official scenarios. For example:
Immigration Applications
Applying for a UK visa, residency, or citizenship often requires certified translations of key personal documents. Without proper certification, your application may face delays, rejection, or be marked incomplete by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
Commonly Required Documents:
- Birth certificates
- Marriage certificates
- Academic qualifications (things like degrees, diplomas etc.)
- Police clearance certificates (CRB/DBS checks)
- Proof of employment or income
- Passports and ID cards
- Proof of address (utility bills, bank statements)
Legal Documents
Certified translations are essential in legal proceedings to ensure that foreign-language documents are fully understood and legally valid in court. Failure to provide certified translations can lead to document rejection and weaken your case.
Examples of legal documents that require certification:
- Contracts and agreements
- Court orders and judgments
- Witness statements
- Affidavits and sworn statements
- Evidence and supporting documents
- Power of attorney documents
Academic Purposes
Universities and educational institutions in the UK often require certified translations for admission and course evaluations. Uncertified translations could delay your application or impact eligibility.
Documents You May Need a Certified Translation For:
- Diplomas and certificates
- Academic transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- Research papers or thesis documents
- enrolment or graduation certificates
- Degree verifications
Business Transactions
Certified translations are crucial for international business to ensure legal compliance and accurate communication across borders. This prevents misunderstandings and legal issues during transactions.
Common Business Documents Required:
- Contracts and agreements
- Financial reports and statements
- Business licences and registration documents
- Articles of incorporation
- Compliance documents and policies
- Corporate correspondence
Medical Records
For medical treatment abroad or insurance claims, certified translations ensure healthcare providers fully understand your medical history. They also help insurers process claims without delays.
Documents That May Require Certified Translation:
- Medical records and reports
- Prescriptions and treatment plans
- Vaccination records
- Hospital discharge summaries
- Insurance claims and medical bills
- Diagnostic results
Unsure if your documents need certification? Contact us now for qualified advice.
What are the different types of official translations?
Notarised translation
A notarised translation is a translation that involves a translator’s declaration being certified by a Notary public, confirming the translator’s identity. This is often needed for legal documents used outside the UK.
It’s important to note that not all certified translations need to be notarised. In the UK, most official bodies—including the Home Office and universities—accept standard certified translations. However, some legal or international documents may require notarisation for additional legal verification. Always check the specific requirements of the receiving organisation to ensure the correct type of certification.
Apostille Translation
An apostille translation is a notarised translation that’s further authenticated by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) for legal use in countries under the Hague Apostille Convention.
Sworn Translation
A sworn translation is a translation completed by a government-authorised translator who swears to its accuracy. It’s legally required in countries like Spain, France, and Germany but not recognised in the UK.
| Type of Translation | Purpose | Required By |
|---|---|---|
| Certified | Official use in the UK (e.g., UKVI, courts, universities) | UK authorities, universities |
| Notarised | Additional legal authentication for documents used internationally | Foreign legal entities |
| Apostille | Legal validity in other countries via the Hague Apostille Convention | Foreign governments |
| Sworn | Legally binding translation provided by a court-authorised translator (not recognised in the UK) | Required in countries like Spain, France, and Germany |
Why Is There No Standard Format In The UK?
Unlike some other countries, the UK does not have a regulated system for certified translations. This means the requirements can vary depending on the receiving organisation. For example, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), may have slightly different standards than courts or universities.
To avoid issues, it’s essential to check the specific requirements of the organisation requesting the certified translation. Professional translators or agencies can often tailor their certification statements to meet these needs.
Unsure of your requirements? Contact our experts for tailored advice.
Are Digital Copies Accepted?
Many organisations accept digital copies of certified translations for convenience and quicker processing. However, courts and some official bodies often require physical copies because they need to verify the authenticity of the translation through original signatures, official stamps, and embossed seals. These physical markers serve as proof that the translation is legitimate and has been certified by a qualified translator or agency. Without these, the document may not be considered legally valid or could be rejected, potentially causing delays in legal proceedings or official applications.
Still have questions? Speak with our team of certified translators for clarification today.
Why Choose LITS for Certified Translation Services?
With over 20 years of experience, LITS is a trusted provider of certified translation services across the UK, delivering with accuracy, speed, and professionalism. Here’s why businesses and individuals rely on us:
- Certified and Legally Recognised Translations: Our translations meet the strict requirements of UK authorities, courts, and international institutions.
- Specialised Native Translators: We work with industry-expert, native-speaking translators to ensure precise and contextually accurate translations.
- Fast Turnaround Times: We offer quick delivery times, including same-day and next-day services for urgent projects.
- Transparent Pricing: Competitive rates with no hidden fees, providing clear and upfront costs.
- Confidentiality and Data Security: All documents are handled with strict confidentiality and secure data protection practices.
Ready to get started? Contact us today for a free quote for professional certified translation services you can trust.