I need a translation. How does it work?

First we need the documents that should be translated and we need to know exactly what you need (e.g. if a translation must be certified). You can bring us the documents in person or scan them and send them as an e-mail. We then send you (usually within one working day) an offer with the price and how long the translation will take. Then you can let us know whether we should translate the document for you or not.

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.

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. We are open all day from Monday to Friday, from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. You can simply come by, an appointment is not necessary.

Do I need an appointment?

No, just come by during our opening hours.

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

That depends. If we receive the documents to be translated per e-mail, we can unfortunately only begin with the translation after advance payment. If you have given us the originals, you can pay when you pick up your original and the translation.