Certified Translation
Written by Nate Webber
Idiomatic USA Chief Content Officer
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Certified translation is a specialized service where a translator officially certifies that the translation is a true and accurate representation of the original text. This process is essential for official documents like legal, immigration, educational, and certain business documents, where the authenticity and accuracy of the translation are critical.
Key Points on Certified Translation:
Nature of Certification: The translator or translation agency attests to the accuracy of the translation. This often includes a signed statement from the translator.
Types of Documents: Commonly translated documents include birth certificates, marriage certificates, legal documents, educational transcripts, and immigration papers.
Requirements for Certification: The specific requirements for a certified translation can vary depending on the purpose and the organization requesting it. For instance, some may require the translator's credentials or a notarized certificate.
Translation Services: Professional translation services offer certified translations, ensuring that the translated documents meet the necessary standards and requirements. Prices and turnaround times vary among providers.
ATA Certification: The American Translators Association (ATA) provides guidelines and sample certifications for translators. The ATA's certification is recognized in many contexts as a standard of excellence and reliability in translation.
USCIS Requirements: For immigration purposes in the United States, such as with the USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services), certified translations must meet specific criteria. They often need to include certain information like the translator's certification of accuracy and their contact information.
Digital Availability: Many translation services now offer quick, online processes for certified translations, catering to a global audience and a variety of languages.
Quality and Accuracy: Certified translations prioritize not only linguistic accuracy but also the maintenance of the original format and details, which is crucial for legal and official documents.
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