These days, almost everyone has to submit documents abroad at least once in their life — for a visa, education, immigration, or just to prove their identity in another country. And that’s where an important term comes in — document translation. This means the official translation of documents from one language to another, which is required in many real-life situations.
In this article, we’ll explain in simple terms what document translation is, why you might need it, why it’s essential to use a certified translator, how to check the quality of your translation, and how to easily place an order online.
What Are Documents and Document Translation?
Documents are official papers confirming facts about your life — your identity, place of birth, education, work, marital status, etc. Here are the most common examples of documents:
Birth certificate.
Passport.
Diploma or school certificate.
Police clearance certificate.
Marriage or divorce certificate.
When you go abroad or deal with foreign organizations, they can’t read your documents in your native language. That’s why you need document translation — translating these papers into a language the official institution understands.
But this can’t be just a quick Google Translate version. This is a serious document, and it must be accurate, well-written, and formatted according to the standards of the country where you're submitting it.
Why Choose a Certified Translator for Your Document Translation
Reminder: You can't translate official documents yourself if you're not a professional translator. There are specific translation rules for documents, and some institutions even require notarization — a notary stamp confirming the document matches the original. Only a professional can handle that.
A certified translator has the proper education and experience and knows the rules and standards for official translations.
Why this matters:
Accuracy. A certified translator knows how to format dates correctly (for example, 12.06.2001 — June 12, 2001).
Names. They won’t mess up your surname because they follow official transliteration rules.
Formatting. They know how the final document should look so that a consulate or university will accept it.
It might be rejected if a relative or friend translates your document — even if they know the language. For example, USCIS (U.S. immigration services) says a translator cannot be related to the applicant.
How to Check the Quality of Your Document Translation
You've received your document translation. How to check if everything is okay? Here are some tips:
Check all dates: Mistakes often happen with dates. For example, 04.07.2000 could mean July 4th or April 7th, depending on the format. This is critical because the date of birth or marriage must match exactly across all documents.
Names should match the passport: Your last name must be written exactly as in your foreign passport or previous official translations. If it's written differently, questions could arise at the embassy.
No free translation: If the document says "Mother: Karla Rossa," the translation must be "Mother: Karla Rossa," not "Mom: Maria" or "Mamma: Signora Bianchi." This is an official translation, not an adaptation to local culture.
Pay attention to the format: A quality translation should look like an official document, with the translator's signature and statement. Often, there’s a page with the phrase, "I certify that I am fluent in both English and German..." — this is a must.
Ask questions: If something is unclear, ask. A good company will happily explain everything.
When You May Need Document Translation?
Document translation is usually needed when you submit official documents to a foreign institution. This could be an embassy, university, immigration service, court, hospital, or other government body. These institutions do not accept documents in your native language, so you must provide an accurate translation.
For example, if you apply to a university abroad, you must translate your high school diploma, transcript, and academic records. If you are applying for a visa, you must translate your employment reference, birth certificate, and income documents. The translation must be accurate and certified, or it may not be accepted.
How to Order a Document Translation from Us?
We’ve made everything simple. You don’t need to visit an office or make a phone call.
Go to rapidtranslate.org/documents. Choose the document type that suits you.
Upload the document. Scan, PDF, or photo — just make sure everything is clear and readable.
Choose the language. English, German, French — we work with many languages.
Pay. By card or PayPal — it’s all secure.
Receive your completed translation. We’ll email you the certified document. You can also order a printed copy.
Standard turnaround time is 1-2 days. But we also offer urgent translations within a few hours.
Why You Should Oder Document Translation from Rapid Translate
Reviews of our service can be found on our website and independent platforms where customers share their experiences. People talk about how easy it was to order the translation, how quickly they received the result, and how their documents were accepted without issues. In the meantime, here are a few key advantages of why you should choose us:
Certified translators. We know how to prepare a translation that embassies, courts, universities, or offices will accept.
100% guarantee. If your document is not accepted, we will refund your money or redo the translation for free.
Everything is online. There are no queues, offices, or stress. Simply upload the file and wait for it to arrive in your email.
Thousands of satisfied customers. We’ve been in business for many years and have real experience.
Conclusion: Document Translation Is Easy When You’re with Us
Document translation is not something to be afraid of. Just turn to the professionals. We’ll take care of everything for you — quickly, efficiently, and officially. Ready to order a translation? Visit our website, and your document will be with you in just one day!
