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If a document is not in English or the official language of the country you are applying to, most embassies want a certified translation with it. A translation that is missing the right details can slow your application or get the document sent back. This guide covers what to translate, what a valid translation includes, how to order one and the mistakes that cause problems.
What must a certified translation include?
Requirements vary by country, so check your destination’s visa page. As an example, UK rules ask for these on every translation:
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- A statement from the translator confirming it is an accurate translation of the original
- The date of the translation
- The translator’s full name and signature
- The translator’s contact details
- Details of the translator’s credentials, or the translation company’s details
The translation should be certified by a professional translator or a translation company. You cannot translate your own documents, even if your language skills are strong. Other countries may add their own steps, such as a stamp, a sworn translator or legalisation, so never assume the UK list is enough elsewhere.
Which documents usually need translating?
Only documents written in another language need translating. Typical examples are:
- Birth, marriage and divorce certificates issued in another language
- Academic certificates and transcripts
- Police clearance certificates
- Bank statements and employment letters, if not in English
- Documents in a local language such as Yoruba, Igbo or Hausa
If a document is already in English, such as most Nigerian certificates and WAEC or NECO results, it does not need translating for an English-language application. It may still need translating for countries that require their own language, such as France, Germany, Italy or Spain, so check.
Which language do you translate into?
| Situation | Usually translate into |
|---|---|
| UK application, document in another language | English |
| Schengen application | The language of the embassy you apply to, or English if the embassy accepts it. Check first |
| Canada, document in another language | English or French |
How do you get a document translated?
- Read the embassy or visa centre’s translation rules for your application.
- List every document that needs translating.
- Choose a professional translator or translation company that issues a signed certificate of accuracy.
- Send clear scans of the full document, including stamps and handwritten notes.
- Check names, dates and numbers against the original before you accept the translation. Spelling must match your passport.
- Submit the translation together with the original document.
Mistakes that cause problems
- Translating only part of a document or leaving out stamps and notes
- A name spelled differently from the passport
- No translator signature, date or contact details
- Using a friend or family member as translator
- Waiting until the week of your appointment
Common questions
Do I submit the original as well?
Yes. Send the original or a copy of the original together with the translation, as the embassy instructs.
Is a digital translation accepted?
It depends on the country and the application route. Many visa centres take scans uploaded online, but some ask for paper copies at your appointment. Follow your checklist.
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Can I use an AI tool?
An AI tool can help you understand a document, but it cannot certify a translation. Embassies expect a signed statement from a professional translator or company.
Do I need to translate every page of a bank statement?
If the statement is not in an accepted language, translate what the embassy asks for, usually the full pages you submit. Do not submit untranslated pages.
How much does it cost?
Prices depend on the language, length and urgency. Ask for a written quote that covers certification before you start, and compare more than one provider.
How early should I start?
Order translations as soon as you start gathering documents. Fixing a mistake after you have booked an appointment is stressful and can cost you the slot.
Translation is one of several things that decide an application
Correct paperwork helps, but approval also depends on funds, ties and travel history. See our guide to the key factors that affect visa application success and our visa application checklist.
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