Official translation for United Kingdom
A translation confirmed in writing by the translator or translation company as true and accurate.
What it is calledCertified translation
Who can sign it
The UK has no sworn-translator system. A professional translator or translation company certifies the translation; membership of a body such as the CIOL or ITI is commonly expected.
What it must contain
UK government guidance asks the translator to confirm in writing that it is a “true and accurate translation of the original document”, with the date and the translator’s full name and contact details.
Who asks for it
UK Visas and Immigration (Home Office), HM Passport Office, the General Register Office, courts, universities and UK ENIC.
Apostille and legalisation
The UK is a member of the Apostille Convention. Whether the original needs an apostille depends on the receiving body.
Order a translation for United Kingdom
These guides summarise published requirements and are for general information. Rules change and individual offices can ask for more, so the receiving authority always has the final word.
Other countries
United States
A complete English translation with a signed certificate of accuracy from the translator.
Read the guide →Spain
A translation signed and stamped by a sworn translator appointed by the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Read the guide →France
A translation by a translator registered as an expert with a French Court of Appeal.
Read the guide →Germany
A translation by a translator sworn in before a German regional court.
Read the guide →Italy
A translation sworn by the translator before an Italian court clerk, justice of the peace or notary.
Read the guide →Portugal
A translation certified before a Portuguese notary, lawyer or solicitor, or by a consulate.
Read the guide →Canada
A translation by a certified member of a provincial translators’ association, or one backed by an affidavit.
Read the guide →Australia
A translation by a translator credentialed by NAATI, the Australian accreditation authority.
Read the guide →Mexico
A Spanish translation by an expert translator authorised by a Mexican state or federal court.
Read the guide →Brazil
A Portuguese translation by a public translator registered with a Brazilian state board of trade.
Read the guide →United Arab Emirates
An Arabic translation by a translator licensed by the UAE Ministry of Justice.
Read the guide →