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Certified Translation FAQs

 

Here are answers to the questions I typically field about Certified Translations.

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Are you “assermenté”?

No, I am not “assermentée”.

I provide certified translations for the US and UK markets only.


What if my document must have an apostille?

Translations cannot be apostilled. If an apostille is needed, you must obtain it prior to translation.

The US Embassy’s website explains, “The apostille must be affixed at the government agency in the country which issued the original document.” More info here.


I am in the process of emigrating to the US, and have a significant number of documents to translate. Can you help me with this?

Yes, I can handle projects with more than one document.


My son or daughter would like to apply to study at a university in the US. Can you help us translate THEIR academic records?

Of course! I am familiar with the US higher education system and application process.

This is one of the most frequent requests I receive.


Do you convert grades to the US system?

No, I do not convert grades from the French educational system to US equivalents, as this would constitute a change to the original.

No changes are made to original content during translation.


The address on my document is incorrect. Can you correct it when you translate the document?

No, I cannot make corrections to the information in your document during translation, even if it is no longer up-to-date.

If changes or updates are required, please ensure that they are done before your project is confirmed.

Fees shall apply to incorporate a change to a project already underway or to update and re-issue your certified translation.


What methods OF payment do you accept?

Electronic Funds Transfers (EFT) to my business bank account are my main form of payment. I also accept PayPal.

Any fees incurred through PayPal or international wire transfers shall be borne by the customer (included in the full price provided at the time of quote).


Can I pay in us dollars (uSD)?

By default, the currency I use to establish my quotes is the Euro. It is possible to pay in USD when specified at the time of your request.

Why “certified”?

A certified translation is different from other translations in that the translator certifies that the attached translation is a true and accurate rendition of the original.

Certified translations are always accompanied by the original document.

In some cases, the requesting entities may need/require originals of both the document and the translation. This point must be checked before making your request so that the project runs smoothly without necessitating any change orders midway or after delivery.


Can you notarize my document?

I cannot notarize the original document for you.

However, it is possible to have the translation notarized, meaning that an official notary public will witness my signature and stamp on the affidavit and translation.

This is an optional service, and if requested, is subject to an additional fee that will be confirmed at the time of quote.


HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO GET MY TRANSLATION BACK?

Standard turnaround time for standard documents containing less than 5 pages is 3 business days from the day that the project is confirmed and payment is received according to the terms of the proposal or quote.

Delivery will vary for longer documents, or those that require heavy formatting work.


What if I need the translation sooner?

Urgent deliveries are accommodated at the translator’s discretion and according to availability.

Rush fees may apply and are specified at the time of quote.


What if I need a hard copy of the translation?

Hard copies can be provided at an additional cost.

Please be sure to specify this requirement at the time of your request in order to avoid delays.


Can I get my money back if the requesting entity does not accept the certified translation?

The client is responsible for ensuring that he/she fully understands the requirements and communicates them clearly to the translator prior to the start of the project. 

The translator is not liable for any problems with your dossier which may arise due to incorrect or incomplete instructions.

No refunds will be issued.


How are my personal details kept safe?

With respect to electronic document security, the certified translation provided will be protected against editing, ensuring that no changes can be made once complete.

This also serves to reassure the requesting entity of the authenticity of the work.

If you question pertains to how your personal information is handled, please be assured that I comply with the GDPR. Read my GDPR policy here.