Translation FAQ

Certified Translations in the United States
If you need to present an official translation to government authorities, such as for immigrations (USCIS), passport or visa renewals, legal or banking reasons, or even to a university admissions office, what you really need is a "Certified Translation." This means a qualified, professional translator can perform the translation, but she must include these three elements:
1) Original (legalized) source-language text;
2) Translation created by the professional translator;
3) Translator's Certificate of Accuracy that the translator signs before a notary. This is a statement on company letterhead that attests to the translator's qualifications to translate the languages in question and attests that the translation is true and accurate to the best of her knowledge, information, and belief.
This practice is relevant in nations including, but not limited to: United States of America
Base cost is $95.00, which covers translation for up to 300 words (usually 1-2 pages) and very basic formatting.
Plus $25 per Translator's Certificate of Accuracy. (If you wish to include editing by a second translator, fancy formatting, or other features, we can provide a custom estimate of the time and cost for these additional services.)

Standard turnaround: 2-3 business days from receipt of customer’s original documents
 
Certified Translations for foreign nations
Translated documents going to certain foreign nations follow the practice listed above with two additional steps:
1) You may need to first obtain an apostille that authenticates the legal nature of official or notarized documents. For example, if you plan to present your U.S. birth and marriage certificates in Mexico, you will need official (government issued) certificates from the state government, with an apostille verifying that these are official deeds.
2) You will also need a second apostille to verify the official nature of the notarized translator's certificate. Oregon's Secretary of State provides a good description of the notarization and apostille processes.
This practice is relevant in nations including, but not limited to: Angola, Belgium, Mexico, Russia, the United Kingdom
Base cost is $95.00, which covers translation for up to 300 words (usually 1-2 pages) and very basic formatting.
Plus $25 per Translator's Certificate of Accuracy. (If you wish to include editing by a second translator, fancy formatting, or other features, we can provide a custom estimate of the time and cost for these additional services.)

Standard turnaround: 2-3 business days from receipt of customer’s original documents

Certified Translators or Sworn Translators
Some countries require official translations to be produced by a translator who has been authorized by the government of that country. This often means undergoing specialized training and taking an oath before a government bureau or court (thus becoming a “Sworn Translator”). Canada relies on each province’s professional association to administer certification testing; only certified members of these associations should produce official translations for Canada. You must contact the recipient government to find an approved translator. (Tips: Check the embassy's website. Contact an Honorary Consul)
This practice is relevant in nations including, but not limited to: Argentina, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Portugal, Spain
Base cost: Not offered
Service includes: Not offered
Standard turnaround: Not offered