Marriage certificate, diploma or driving licence: anyone submitting foreign documents to a German authority – or German documents abroad – almost always needs a certified translation. Here you will learn what a certified translation is, who may produce it and how to get yours quickly and reliably in Düsseldorf.
What is a certified translation?
A certified translation (in German “beglaubigte Übersetzung”) is a translation whose accuracy and completeness is confirmed by a court-authorised translator with a signature, stamp and certification statement. The translation is usually bound to a copy of the original document, so any authority can see exactly which document was translated.
When do you need a certified translation?
Whenever an authority, a court or an official body has to examine a foreign-language document in a legally binding way. Typical examples:
- Birth, marriage and divorce certificates for the registry office
- Residence and naturalisation procedures at the immigration office
- Converting a foreign driving licence
- Recognition of school certificates, diplomas and professional qualifications
- Court proceedings, notary appointments and inheritance matters
- Contracts, commercial register extracts and powers of attorney for companies
Who may produce certified translations?
In Germany, only translators who have been authorised or sworn in by a court may produce certified translations. Our team includes publicly authorised translators for numerous languages. The translations we certify are recognised by authorities, courts, embassies and consulates. Read more about the difference between sworn interpreters and authorised translators in our guide.
How your certified translation works
- Send your document as a scan or photo by email or via our enquiry form
- Receive a free quote with price and delivery date
- Confirm the order – our authorised translators produce the translation
- Receive the certified translation by post or collect it from our office at Luisenstraße 55 in Düsseldorf
Whether the authority also wants to see the original is best checked directly with the office where you submit the translation.
How much does a certified translation cost?
The cost depends on the language combination, length, difficulty and the delivery time required. For standard documents such as birth or marriage certificates we often offer fixed prices. Express orders are possible for a surcharge. Judicial authorities are billed according to the JVEG. You will find all details under prices & terms – or receive a binding quote after a short enquiry.
Certified translation for use abroad
If a German document is to be used abroad, many countries additionally require an apostille or legalisation. Which steps are needed and in which order is explained in detail in our article on apostille, legalisation and translation.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a certified translation take?
Standard documents such as certificates are usually ready within a few working days. With our express service, short-notice delivery is often possible – just ask us.
Is a scan of my document enough?
For the quote and the translation, a clearly legible scan or photo is usually sufficient. You then receive the certified translation as an original with stamp and signature.
Is the translation recognised abroad?
Certified translations by German authorised translators are accepted in many countries. Some countries additionally require an apostille or legalisation. It is best to check the requirements with the receiving authority in advance.
Which languages do you offer?
We translate into and from more than 100 languages – including Turkish, Arabic, Kurdish, Persian, English, French, Russian, Polish and many more.
Need a translation or an interpreter?
Send us your documents – you will quickly receive a free, non-binding quote.
