Certified Translation: Understanding the Basics

Certified translation is frequently required alongside apostilled documents — yet many people are unclear on what it means, who can provide it, and when it is legally required. This guide covers the essentials.

What Is a Certified Translation?

A certified translation is a translation accompanied by a signed statement from the translator (or translation company) attesting that the translation is accurate and complete to the best of their knowledge and ability. The certification is the translator's professional attestation — it is not issued by a government agency.

In the United States, there is no government licensing requirement for translators. Any competent bilingual person can provide a certified translation. In practice, professional translation companies and certified translators (those credentialed by the American Translators Association or similar bodies) provide the most reliable certified translations.

Certified vs. Notarized Translation

These terms are often confused:

• Certified translation: The translator signs a statement of accuracy. No notary is involved.
• Notarized translation: A notary public notarizes the translator's signature — confirming the translator's identity, not the accuracy of the translation. The notary does not verify the translation.

Some institutions require notarized translations; others accept certified translations without notarization. Miami Dade Apostille confirms the specific requirement for your destination before providing the translation.

When Is a Certified Translation Required?

Certified translations are typically required when:

• Submitting foreign-language documents to USCIS for US immigration proceedings
• Presenting apostilled US documents to foreign government agencies in non-English-speaking countries
• Presenting apostilled foreign documents to US courts, banks, or institutions
• Applying for foreign residency, citizenship, or professional license recognition

Does the Apostille Need to Be Translated?

The apostille certificate itself is issued in the language of the issuing country. The Hague Convention specifies that apostilles may be issued in French or in the official language of the issuing authority. Florida apostilles are issued in English. Some countries require a translation of the apostille itself; others do not. Miami Dade Apostille advises on this requirement for your specific destination.

Languages Miami Dade Apostille Covers

Miami Dade Apostille coordinates certified translation for all major languages, including Spanish, Portuguese, French, Italian, German, Arabic, Russian, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and many others. Translation is coordinated as part of the complete apostille package.

Ready to move forward? Book an appointment or call us at 1-800-631-9171.