Certified vs Standard Translation: What’s the Difference?

If you need a document translated, you might be wondering whether you need a certified translation or just a standard one. It mainly depends on what you need the translation for.

What is a Certified Translation?

A certified translation includes a statement confirming that the translation is accurate and matches the original document.

You may need one for things like:

• Birth or marriage certificates

• Academic certificates and transcripts

• Visa and immigration documents

• Court or legal documents

• Government paperwork

The rules can be different depending on the organisation or country, so it’s a good idea to check what they need before ordering your translation 

What is a Standard Translation?

A standard translation is usually enough when you simply need the information translated into another language and no official certification is required.

It can be used for:

• Business documents

• Emails

• Websites

• Marketing content

• Company documents

• General information

So, if someone just needs to understand the content, you may not need a certified translation. 

What’s the Difference?

The main difference is how the translation will be used.

A certified translation is normally used for official purposes and comes with certification. A standard translation is mainly used for everyday business, communication and general information. 

Translation or Interpreting?

Translation is for written documents, while interpreting is for spoken conversations.

For example, you would need a translation for a birth certificate, but you might need an interpreter for a solicitor meeting, interview or appointment.

NTIS Pro

• NTIS Pro helps organisations arrange interpreting services through a network of more than 1,000 interpreters.

• Interpreting can be arranged in different ways, including face-to-face, video, telephone and WhatsApp, depending on the situation.

• NTIS provides interpreting for legal, criminal and non-legal assignments, as well as healthcare, business, education and government appointments.

Which Service Do You Need?

• If you’re sending a document to a court, government department, university or immigration authority, check whether they require a certified translation.

• For normal business or personal use, a standard translation may be all you need. If you need help communicating with someone who speaks another language, interpreting is the better option.

• NTIS provides translation and interpreting services for businesses, organisations, legal professionals and individuals. 

• Choose a Translation Service You Can Rely On

Need a translation or interpreter? Contact UKLST today to find the right professional language solution for your requirements Contact us