I need a translation. How does it work?

First, we need the documents to be translated and information about your specific requirements (e.g. whether the translation needs to be certified). You are welcome to bring the documents to us in person by appointment; however, we prefer that you send them to us as a scanned copy by email.

You will then receive a quote (usually within one working day) including the price and estimated turnaround time. You can then decide whether you would like us to proceed with the translation.

Please note that we can only start work after advance payment. Once you confirm the order, you will receive an invoice by email. We will begin the translation as soon as payment has been received or proof of payment has been provided.

As soon as we receive the completed translation from the translator, we will inform you. You can then either collect it from our office or have it sent to you by post.

How long does a translation take?

The turnaround time depends on the volume of the documents and the availability of the translator. We therefore need to check with the appropriate translator first. As a rule, we estimate a processing time of approximately one week.

As our translators do not work on-site, the completed translations are sent to us by post. Unfortunately, we have no control over the delivery time. If required, you can request express shipping, although this will incur additional costs.

Alternatively, we can scan the completed translation and send it to you in advance by email, provided this is accepted.

How much does a translation cost?

We can only provide a price after consulting with the translator. The cost depends on several factors, such as the language combination, the type and volume of the documents, and the type of certification required.

Please send us the documents you need translated, and we will provide you with a quote.

I was told that I need a certification. What is that?

Only translators that are authorized or sworn, may issue a translation with a certification. The certification confirms the authenticity of the translation.
Please note: Only the authenticity of the translation is confirmed, not the authenticity of the original document.

Can a translation be certified afterwards?

Only certain translators can certify a translation. If the text was not translated by one of these translators, it must, unfortunately, be re-translated.

Can you obtain further copies of the certified translation later, if this is necessary?

That’s possible. However, it can be that the translator charges a minimum amount for the resulting time expenditure. If, from the start, several copies are requested, normally only a certification fee per copy is charged.

Can a previously done translation be certified by a sworn translator?

No. The translators certify only translations that they have done themselves.

I already have a certified translation from abroad. Can I use it?

Unfortunately, no. Translations carried out abroad are generally not recognised in Germany, even if they are certified. Only translations prepared by translators sworn in Germany are accepted.

Certification, certificate of authenticity, notarial certification, Legalisation or Apostille – What are they?

 There are different types of certifications for translations. Certified translations can only be performed by those who are authorized or sworn to do so. If a “simple” certification is required, the respective translator can do this on his/her own. A certificate of authenticity, Legalisation or Apostille must be obtained by the translator at the responsible office. For a notarial certification, the translator must go to the notary. Accordingly, this is more expensive than a “simple” certification.

It is also important to know whether the respective certification or Legalisation/Apostille must be attached to the translation or the original. If it should be attached to the original, then please consult the office that has issued the document.

Please find out in advance (at the authority, institution etc., for which you need the translation), exactly which type of certification you need and whether the certification also needs to be translated into the national language. Otherwise this can incur high costs and require a lot of time.

I’m not exactly sure which documents and which type of certification I need. Can you help me?

Unfortunately not. What you need depends on for whom you need the translation and for what reason you need it. As there are countless uses, offices and countries, we cannot tell you exactly what you need in your situation.
Please find out in advance (at the authority, institution etc., for which you need the translation), exactly which type of certification you need and whether the certification also needs to be translated into the national language. Otherwise this can incur high costs and take a lot of time.

Can I come by in person?

Yes, but only by prior arrangement. Please feel free to call us to arrange an appointment.

Do I need an appointment?

Yes, please call us to schedule an appointment..

Do I have to pay in advance, or when the translation is finished?

Certified and private translations can only be started after advance payment.

How can I pay?

Payment is made by bank transfer. Once you have accepted our quote, we will send you an invoice by email with all the necessary payment details.