Certified vs Notarised Translation
When submitting translated documents to authorities, you'll often see requirements for "certified" or "notarised" translations. These terms are frequently confused, but they mean different things and serve different purposes.
Quick Answer
Certified translation includes a signed statement of accuracy from the translator. Notarised translation adds a notary public's official seal and signature. Most UK authorities (including UKVI) only require certified translation.
Understanding the Difference
Choose the right level of authentication for your documents
Certified Translation
Translator's Declaration
The translation includes a signed statement from the translator or translation company confirming accuracy and completeness. This is the standard requirement for most official purposes in the UK.
Starting from
£35/document
- Signed accuracy statement
- Translator credentials included
- Company stamp/letterhead
- Contact details provided
- Accepted by UKVI/Home Office
- Valid for UK courts and authorities
Best for:
UK visa applications, university admissions, DVLA, banks, employers, and most UK government departments.
Notarised Translation
Notary Public Authentication
A notary public (solicitor with special appointment) verifies the translator's identity and witnesses their signature. Adds an extra layer of legal authentication.
Starting from
£180+ (incl. notary fee)
- Everything in certified, plus:
- Notary public seal
- Notary's signature
- Legal authentication
- Often required for international use
- May need apostille for some countries
Best for:
International legal matters, foreign court submissions, some embassy requirements, and countries requiring additional authentication.
When to Choose Each Option
UK Immigration (UKVI/Home Office)
Visa applications, settlement, citizenship, asylum claims, and all Home Office submissions.
University Applications (UCAS)
Academic transcripts, diplomas, and qualification certificates for UK university admissions.
DVLA Licence Exchange
Converting a foreign driving licence to a UK licence.
Foreign Embassies
Documents for submission to embassies or foreign governments.
International Court Cases
Legal documents for use in foreign court proceedings.
UK Banks & Employers
Identity documents, employment records, and financial documents.
Key Things to Know
UKVI Accepts Certified
The UK Home Office explicitly states certified translation is acceptable. Notarisation is not required for UK visas.
Cost Difference
Notarisation adds £150-200+ to the cost. Only pay for it if specifically required by the receiving authority.
Time Difference
Certified translation: same day possible. Notarised translation: typically 2-3 additional working days.
International Use
For use outside the UK, check if the destination country requires notarisation or an apostille.
Both Are Official
Both certified and notarised translations are legally valid. The difference is the level of authentication.
Apostille Option
Some countries require an apostille (government authentication) in addition to notarisation.
What Makes a Translation "Certified"?
A certified translation includes a signed declaration from the translator or translation company stating that the translation is accurate and complete to the best of their knowledge. The certificate typically includes:
- The translator's name and qualifications
- The date of translation
- A statement of accuracy
- The translator's signature
- Company details and contact information
This certification carries legal weight - the translator is legally accountable for the accuracy of their work.
When is Notarisation Required?
Notarisation is typically required when documents will be used internationally, particularly in countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention. Common scenarios include:
- Property purchases abroad
- International business contracts
- Foreign court proceedings
- Immigration to certain countries
- Academic credentials for use overseas
Always check with the receiving authority before paying for notarisation - many organisations that people assume require it actually accept standard certified translation.
Apostille: The Additional Step
An apostille is a government-issued certificate that authenticates documents for international use. If required, it comes after notarisation. The process is:
- Translation completed
- Notary public authenticates
- Foreign Office applies apostille
We offer a complete apostille service, handling the entire process from translation through to apostille application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this topic
No. The UK Home Office (UKVI) explicitly states that translations must be certified but do not need to be notarised. A certified translation with translator details and a signed accuracy statement is sufficient for all UK visa and immigration applications.
Certified translation starts at £35 per document. Notarisation adds approximately £150-200+ to this cost (notary fees vary). Only pay for notarisation if specifically required by the receiving authority.
Notarisation typically adds 2-3 working days to the process, as we need to schedule an appointment with a notary public. Certified translation alone can often be completed same-day.
While technically anyone can translate, certified translations should come from professional translators or reputable translation companies. Authorities may reject translations without proper credentials or professional presentation.
Apostilles are typically required when using documents in countries that are members of the Hague Convention. Check with the receiving authority in the destination country. For UK domestic use, apostilles are not required.
In the UK, we use "certified translation" rather than "sworn translation" (a term more common in continental Europe). For UK purposes, a properly certified translation meets official requirements.
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