Certified Translation Requirements & Options
A practical guide to the difference between standard certification, notarisation and apostille legalisation, and the information to check before ordering a translation for official use.
Go to UK Certified Translation Services
Start with the receiving body’s instructions
There is no single certification format used for every organisation or country. The safest starting point is the written requirement from the authority, university, court, employer, regulator or other organisation receiving the translation.
Common certification routes
Standard Certified Translation
Commonly used for UK official submissions. Certification can include a statement confirming the translation is true and accurate, together with the relevant translator or agency details, date and signature.
Notarisation
A notary may be required where the receiving organisation specifically requests notarisation. This is different from standard translation certification.
Apostille / Legalisation
For some overseas uses, an apostille or other legalisation step may be requested after the underlying document or certification has been prepared correctly.
Information worth confirming first
- Which organisation will receive the translation?
- Which country will it be used in?
- Does the organisation provide written certification wording?
- Is a digital PDF sufficient, or is a hard copy required?
- Has notarisation or apostille legalisation been specifically requested?
- Does the receiving body specify a deadline or validity period?
Need the translation itself?
The main UK service page handles document uploads, quotes, certification requirements, turnaround and delivery.
Request a Certified TranslationCertified translation requirements
Is a certified translation the same as a notarised translation?
No. Standard certification and notarisation are separate steps. Only order notarisation if the receiving body requires it.
Do I always need an apostille?
No. Apostille legalisation is normally only relevant where the receiving authority or destination-country process specifically requires it.
What should I send before requesting a quote?
Send a clear copy of the document, the source and target language, where the translation will be submitted, the country of use, the deadline and any written certification instructions.
Where do I order a UK certified translation?
Use the dedicated UK Certified Translation Services page, which is the primary booking and document-upload route for this service.