Certificate translation is a service that we have regular demand for that can cover a multitude of requirements from visa applications and passports, to professional certificates and licences, as well as birth, marriage and death certificates.

When choosing a translator, you are wise to make sure they understand the fine details that apply to each. Here are some examples of the issues you can rely on us to deal with accurately and sensitively.

The translator’s declaration

Translation of a certificate requires a declaration from the translation company and/or the individual translator to the effect that the translation is a true and accurate translation of the original. A reputable translation company will never alter the original meaning – even when the client asks them to.

We have heard of occasions when clients have tried to pressurise a translator into giving a misleading translation, for example of a person’s marital status or professional qualification, but this is something that we can never do. Not only would it damage our own reputation it would only cause problems for the client further down the line.

Different certificates require different translators’ declarations

It’s worth ensuring that your translator is aware of the different requirements for the translation of different types of certificate.
Some types of certificate or document require the translation company only to make a declaration of accuracy. A job application would come into this category.

There are more stringent regulations for other types of certificate translation which require both the translation company and the individual translator to jointly declare its validity. A certificate for the UK Highly Skilled Migrant Programme would a typical example of this requirement.

For students requiring certificate translation, the translator must come from a suitable UK recognised institution and your translation company should be aware of this.

Spelling names correctly

If a certificate is to be presented along with a passport it usually essential that the names on each match accurately. The translator’s declaration should say this or note any differences, for example where the order of names has been changed.

At SanTranslate we always ask the client to check that the spelling is correct before we bind and seal the document. Without this step, the client could be in danger of presenting a document with an incorrectly spelled name which could incur a great deal of lost time and money as the document would need to be re-translated and presented (and probably paid for) a second time.
Whilst it is the client’s responsibility to ensure their application is correct, we do as much as we can to ensure that it will be. Our systems ensure that we can reference any translated certificate quickly and easily so we are happy to co-operate should the Home Office wish to make extra checks.