What’s the difference between certified, notified and apostilled translations?

Have you been asked to provide a notarised translation of your documents? We explain what the difference is between certified, notarised and apostilled (sometimes called “legalised”) translations.

Certified translations

As a UK translation agency, we regularly provide clients with certified translations. This type of translation is commonly required when submitting official documents to UK bodies or organisations, such as the Home Office. A certified translation comes with a signed and stamped statement, which confirms that it is a true translation of the original document, and was carried out by a qualified translator. Atlas Translations is a member of the ITI (Institute of Translation and Interpreting) and the ATC (Association of Translation Companies), and we are fully qualified to certify translations.

Notarised translations

In some situations, a certified translation is not sufficient and it is necessary to – in layman’s terms – make it “more legal”. Notarisation is an additional step which requires an appointment with the notary. Notarised translations, sometimes referred to as “legal translations”, add an extra level of certification or legality. For a translation to be notarised, it has to be certified by a British Notary Public.

This is often required when official documents are being translated for use abroad. Each country has different requirements, and we cannot advise with certainty on the type of translation you need. We recommend confirming which level of certification you need with the relevant body or organisation that asks for the translation.

First, a translator or translation agency has to sign a statement confirming the accuracy of the translation with the original document. The notary will then add their signature and stamp to certify it. Of course, the notary will not be able to verify that the translation is in fact accurate. Their signature and stamp are to authenticate the translator’s identity and to certify that they witnessed the signing (and certifying) of the document.

With this additional step comes an additional cost, hence why our certified translation packages differ in price. The turnaround time for a notarised translation may also be slightly longer when compared to a certified translation.

Apostilled translations

Some countries or bodies may also require a sworn or apostilled (legalised) translation. If you’re moving abroad or are looking to expand your business to foreign markets, you may be required to provide an apostilled translation for official documents. An apostille is a government-issued certificate that proves the authenticity of translated documents.

If your documents were originally issued in the UK, you may need an apostille from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). Translations submitted to the FCO need to be certified by a recognised translation company before the apostille can be granted.

Both notarised and apostilled translations are sealed with a ribbon and wax stamp by a notary public so that the pages can’t be removed or swapped.

You can count on us for all your translation needs

Whether you’re a business or a private individual looking for notarised translation of your documents, we can help. At Atlas Translations, we regularly provide clients with certified, notarised, and apostilled translations – take a look at our 3 packages to find out the details.

If you need a notarised translation of your document, get in touch. All we’ll need is a scan or clear image of your document sent to our email address: team@atlas-translations.co.uk. We can’t wait to hear from you!