Do you need a certified translation? Can you do it yourself? Do you know what the procedure is? Surely a lot of questions popped into mind as soon as you found out you had to go through this process. We know that it can be a little complicated if you don’t know exactly what this concept entails. That’s why we have prepared a small guide with all the information you need to know. Take note!
What is a certified translation?
Certified translations are official or sworn translations, and they can be prepared from any type of document. In other words, you can create a certified translation from a medical report, a manual, a patent, some deeds, etc. The document that is translated and certified is legally valid, but it doesn’t necessarily contain information of a legal nature.
Normally, these types of translations are necessary when documentation must be presented in a government agency or academic institution (courts, ministries, city halls, universities, etc.), and you need to guarantee that the translation of this documentation is accurate and coincides with the original.
Who can do a certified or sworn translation?
This varies depending on the country; only some professionals are certified to complete this type of translation. In Spain, only the certified translations completed by translators who are accredited and authorized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation (MAEC) are considered official. In order to obtain this accreditation, they must pass an exam and meet a number of requirements.
In France, for example, only individuals accredited by the Cour d’Appel (Court of Appeals) can complete certified translations. They must request that they be included in their lists and the accreditation has an expiration date. In Ireland, on the other hand, the Irish Translators’ and Interpreters’ Association (ITIA) is responsible for accrediting translators, who also have to pass an exam.
It should be noted that certified translators are not government officials, but rather self-employed professionals.
Differences on paper
Certified translations are often mistaken for other types of translations, such as legal or technical translations. Both certified and non-certified translators can translate all kinds of documents; there are no restrictions. The choice between one type or another of translation (simple, with its respective area of expertise, or certified) depends on the purpose of the text in question. If the purpose is informative, a normal translation will suffice; but if you need it to have legal validity so it may be presented in a government agency, then the translation will need to be certified.
It’s very easy to tell the difference between both on paper: If the translated document has an apostille alongside the translator’s signature and stamp, it’s a sworn translation. If none of this appears on the page, it’s a simple , or normal, translation.
How to hire a certified translator
Choosing the best certified translator for each document is not easy. We suggest you take into account different factors, one of which is the most important: the type of text. It is essential, even if the translator is accredited by the MAEC, that they be an expert in the corresponding field. The certified translation of a medical record is not the same as the certified translation of a sales contract.
At blarlo, we have a wide network of certified translators, all of whom are accredited by the corresponding authorities and possess expertise in different fields. Do not hesitate to contact us. We will be happy to help you with your certified translations.
This post is also available in: Español (Spanish) Français (French) Nederlands (Dutch)
