Request Certified Translation: A Simple Guide
The process of requesting a certified translation can seem complicated at first glance. What documents are needed? How long does it take? And how do you ensure that the translation will actually be recognized in the end?
Don't worry! In this guide, we'll walk you through the entire process simply and clearly, from properly preparing your documents to receiving your finished, legally secure translation.
The Process in 3 Simple Steps
We have optimized our workflow to make the process as simple and transparent as possible for you.
Step 1: Request a Non-Binding Quote
Simply send us your prepared documents as a scan or photo via our inquiry form or by email. Based on the scope and complexity, we will immediately create a transparent fixed-price quote and provide you with an estimated delivery time.
Step 2: Translation and Certification
Once you have confirmed our quote, the actual work begins. A court-sworn specialist translator for your document type and language combination creates the translation. After careful review, the translation is inseparably bound with a copy of your original document and provided with the official stamp, signature, and certification note.
Step 3: Delivery of the Official Document
The finished physical document will be securely delivered to you by mail, usually by registered mail. Additionally, upon request, you will receive the certified translation in advance as a PDF scan by email, which you can often already use for digital submissions. Thanks to our proximity to the border, you also receive your Certified Translation English-German in Basel quickly and reliably.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here we answer some of the most common questions our customers ask about the process.
How long does the process take?
The pure translation time for standard certificates (such as a birth certificate) is often only 1-2 business days. However, please also plan for the postal delivery time. Overall, you should expect about 3-5 business days from inquiry to receipt of the document. For very urgent cases, we also offer express options.
Do I need to send the original document?
No, in 99% of cases this is not necessary. A high-quality digital copy (a clear scan or sharp photo) that you send us by email is completely sufficient for creating the certified translation. The translation will then be bound with a printout of this copy.
How do I recognize a genuine certified translation?
You can always recognize a genuine certified translation by three features: the certification note, in which the translator vouches for the accuracy, the signature of the translator, and their official stamp. These elements make the document a legally secure certificate.
This guide describes the general process. Detailed information about our specializations can be found on our pages for certified translations English-German and certified translations Spanish-German.