Certified Translations in the UK

When submitting foreign language documents for legal purposes you will often be asked to provide a certified translation, e.g. when filing non-English documents with the UK Home Office, other government offices or foreign embassies. Examples of such documents include birth certificates, marriage certificate, financial statements, medical records, and others.

The certification we provide through our translation office in Bristol, England, is a one-page “Certificate of Accuracy”, stating that the translation is a true and accurate translation of the original document. It also contains the date of the translation and our contact details. The certificate is then attached to the translation, signed by a representative of our company and each page of the translation stamped. This is in compliance with the UK Government guidelines for document certification.

We know that this format is accepted by the Home Office and a range of other government agencies and embassies, but some organisations have different requirements. For that reason, we always recommend that you enquire with the office where you are submitting the documents about their requirements for certified translations.

In some cases, a notarized translation is required. This is relatively rare in the UK, but we know of some foreign embassies in London that require this. We work closely with a notary near our Bristol office to offer you a seamless process, should notarization be required.

The Process

Step 1: Submit your documents

Email your documents to uk@orangetranslations.com or use the "Quick Quote" contact form on this page. We do not need the originals. A scanned copy or picture from your smartphone is fine.

You can also drop off copies of your documents (please do not leave originals with us) at our registered office at Podium Floor, Beacon Tower, Bristol BS1 4XE. However, our project managers work remotely; they are not based at that office. We have receptionists there who will be happy to scan and forward your documents to us, but they are not familiar with the translation process and will not be able to answer any questions. Therefore, the most convenient process is to send us your documents directly by email.

Step 2: Quotation

We will analyse your documents and aim to contact you within 2-3 hours with a quote. This includes the cost, delivery time, and payment information.

Step 3: Payment

If you want to proceed, deposit your payment at any NatWest branch or do a bank transfer. Once completed please send us a quick message. Alternatively, we offer payment by credit card. Upon request, we’ll send you a credit card payment link.

Step 4: Translation, review and approval

We will complete the translation and email it to you for approval. That way you have the opportunity to check the spelling of names, dates etc. and confirm that you are happy with everything. Once approved we will certify the translation and send it to you by Royal Mail.

For further details about certified translations in the UK, please contact Orange Translations Bristol office

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