A lot of people often get confused with the term “certified translation” and what it really means. It is not a term that is used in ordinary conversations, so it’s understandable to not know what it refers to.
In this article, we’ll talk about what certified translation is, when and why you will need it, as well as who can make certified translations. Read on to learn about all of this!
What is a certified translation?
A certified translation is any piece of translated work that includes a signed statement from the one who translated it. In other circumstances, a certification from the translation agency is also required.
The statement typically includes a declaration that the translated piece of work contains all of the contents of the source document. At its core, the statement shall attest to the faithfulness and accuracy of the translated work when juxtaposed with the original document in its source language.
Professional translators and translation agencies are already familiar with the process that goes into certifying translations. They are capable of faithfully translating the source material to its target language, no matter what it will be used for.
The translator should also have a good grasp of linguistics and a mastery of the subject matter. This is one of the first things you should check when you hire a translator for important files such as government documents, or those that deal with legal matters. Make sure that they have knowledge on the topic and the field, so that they may know the jargon and industry-specific terms that are used.
Why do you need certified translations?
If you’re looking for certified translation services, it is crucial to enlist the help of an agency that has proven expertise in the field. Certified translation can make or break your case! This is particularly true if you are launching your own company, planning to immigrate to another country, or applying for university.
Certified translations are usually necessary when it comes to applications or processes that are more stringent than others. For example, U.S. immigration offices require certified translations. Without such, any uncertified piece of translated document would be invalid.
As a rule of thumb, certified translations are needed whenever you deal with legal paperwork. This involves court documents and trial evidence or transcripts. If any document is meant to be submitted to any arm of the government, then you will need certified translations.
However, certified translations are not always necessary.
If you are only getting a document translated for personal purposes, then you do not need to have your translated documents certified. For example, family letters or personal notes do not need certification as it does not need to be handed over to government authorities.
Many opt for translation for their personal wants and reasons, so having to get those documents certified does not add nor take away from the value of the translated work. As long as you get your translation service from a certified and experienced translator, you can be confident that you received quality work without certification.
Can any translator do this? Who can certify translations?
Any translator can certify their work. A certified translation is typically submitted with a signed statement from the translator or the translating agency. The signed statement is usually notarized, especially for government documents. Be sure to check if the requirements you’re submitting need to have a notarized certified translation!
A piece of translation is deemed to be fully certified when it is notarized, making it a legal record.
While any translator can have their work certified, it doesn’t mean that you can just go up to anyone offering and enlist their services. Since you are dealing with sensitive and crucial documents, we recommend trusting only the best.
Find a reputable and experienced translator for your requirements. It will be best to look for one that has a proven track record in the field your document is for. For example, if you are getting legal documents translated, find an agency or a translator who is well-versed in these processes.
They will be able to help you out with your requirements in the best way. Professional translators are expected to have a good grasp of the industry your document is for. Thus, this will lead to fewer complications and hiccups for whatever the translated work is for.
If you are in doubt as to whether you should get your translation documents certified, it will be best to check with the person or institution in charge. Ask if they need it to be notarized, as well as how many copies you need to submit. It may feel like you’re asking too many questions, but doing this will ensure that you don’t have to re-do the steps due to an invalid document.
What is the most translated document?
Hundreds, if not thousands, of documents get translated every week. From all of these translations, have you ever wondered which document has been translated the most worldwide?
The most translated text is the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It broke the world record by being translated into 370 languages and dialects.
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted in Paris on December 10, 1948, as a result of the Second World War. This declaration was the first time that a global expression of rights to which all humans should be entitled was published.
This declaration was translated into many languages in order to let readers all over the world be aware of their inherent rights. Its premise espouses that people, regardless of race, religion, country, or any other factor, are entitled to the rights found in the declaration.
Call eTS for online certified translation services
Translators typically live in-country, so they conduct business online. eTranslation Services have trained translators who handle certified translations. Feel assured that you could have high-quality, complete and accurate certified translations whenever you need them by either sending us an email at [email protected] or calling us at (800) 882-6059.
