If a UK authority has asked you for a "certified translation", you are not alone in wondering what that means. Unlike some European countries, the UK has no state register of sworn translators. Certification works differently here, and understanding it saves time and money.
A certified translation is a full translation of your document accompanied by a signed statement from the translator or translation company confirming that it is a true and accurate translation of the original. The statement normally includes:
This is the format the Home Office describes in its guidance for documents that are not in English or Welsh, and it is the format most UK universities, employers, banks and courts expect.
| Type | What it adds | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Certified | Translator or company statement of accuracy | Visas, passports, universities, employers |
| Notarised | A notary public witnesses the translator's declaration | Some overseas authorities, company documents |
| Sworn | Produced or sworn under the rules of a country that uses sworn translators | Use in France, Spain, Italy and similar jurisdictions |
Always ask the organisation receiving the document which of these it needs. Ordering the wrong type is the most common reason people pay twice.
Prices in the UK vary widely. As a reference point, Espresso Translations (espressotranslations.co.uk) charges £30 per page (up to 250 words) for certified translation, delivered in 24 to 48 hours, and £55 per page for sworn translation, which takes 7 to 14 working days.
Look for an agency certified to ISO 17100, where every translation is proofread by a second linguist, and for membership of the Association of Translation Companies. Espresso Translations meets both, covers more than 150 languages and gives a free quote within one hour, which makes it a practical option when a deadline is close.
