FAQs – Individuals
If you’re an individual who has used or is interested in using our translation and language services, these are the FAQs for you:
Do I really need a certified translation?
If your document is being submitted to an official body (such as the Home Office, Passport Office, courts, or a university), then yes, a certified translation is usually required. Our standard certification is accepted by most UK authorities.
If the translation is needed for use abroad, we recommend checking the exact requirements with the relevant authority to ensure that a certified translation is sufficient.
What’s the difference between certified, notarised, and legalised translations?
Certified: translated by a professional translator and supplied with a signed and stamped certification letter. This is the most common requirement.
Notarised: a certified translation that has also been signed and stamped by a UK public notary.
Legalised (apostilled): a notarised translation that has been further authenticated by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) for use abroad.
If no one has specifically asked for notarisation or an apostille, you probably don’t need them.
Will a digital (PDF) certified translation be accepted?
In most cases, yes. The majority of UK authorities and many overseas institutions accept digitally certified translations supplied by email. If you require a hard copy, we can post one to you for an additional charge.
How long will it take?
Turnaround depends on the length and complexity of the document. Once we’ve reviewed your document and received payment, we’ll confirm a delivery date with you. Notarised and legalised translations take longer due to third-party involvement.
Do I need to send you the original document?
No. A clear scan or photo is usually sufficient. If parts of the document are unclear or handwritten, we’ll flag this with you before translating.
What if my name is spelled incorrectly on the original document?
We are required to reproduce names exactly as they appear on the original document, even if there is a spelling error. This is essential for the translation to be valid.
If your document is in a non-Roman script (e.g., Arabic, Russian, Hebrew), we recommend providing your preferred spelling of names to ensure consistency.
Can you translate handwritten documents?
Yes, but only the parts that are legible to the translator. Any unclear sections will be highlighted and discussed with you.
Will you keep my documents confidential?
Absolutely. All documents are treated as strictly confidential and handled in line with our professional and data protection obligations. We securely archive certified documents for six years.
Why do you need payment before starting?
Because certified translations are customised, official documents, we require payment in full before work begins. This allows us to prioritise your project and confirm delivery times promptly.
I’ve been told “a certified translation is fine” — which package is that?
That’s our Certified Translation Package (£79 + VAT) – the option most private individuals need.