Useful Information
Certified translations, apostilles, legalisation and authority requirements
Here you will find clear and practical information about official documents, certified translations, apostilles, legalisation and typical requirements of German authorities.
What you need to know
A certified translation is more than a simple translation of text. It is prepared by a sworn, authorised or court-appointed translator and includes a translator’s certification statement, date, signature and stamp.
Certified translations are often required for submission to German authorities, registry offices, immigration offices, courts, universities, consulates, notaries and other official institutions.
On this page, you will learn when an apostille may be required, how legalisation differs from a certified translation, which documents are translated most often and how to avoid common mistakes when submitting documents in Germany.
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Why proper preparation matters
Accuracy
Names, dates, places of birth, document numbers, stamps and signatures must be translated completely and consistently.
Acceptance
Many German institutions accept only certified translations prepared by a translator authorised to issue official translations.
Correct order
In some cases, an apostille or legalisation must be obtained before the complete certified translation is prepared.
Key topics around certified translations
Choose the relevant topic and learn which documents are usually required, what German authorities check and which mistakes often lead to questions, delays or rejected submissions.
Apostille, legalisation and translation
An apostille confirms the authenticity of a public document for international use. Legalisation serves a similar purpose but applies in different situations and may involve a more complex procedure.
It is important to understand that an apostille or legalisation does not replace the translation. If a foreign-language document is submitted in Germany, it often also needs to be translated into German. If an apostille has already been attached, it usually becomes part of the certified translation as well.
Practical rule: First check the requirements of the receiving authority. If required, obtain the apostille or legalisation first and then order the certified translation of the complete document.
Common mistakes when submitting documents
Incomplete documents
Reverse sides, apostilles, QR codes, stamps, annotations or attachments are often forgotten, even though they form part of the document.
Different name spellings
The spelling of names should match your passport, ID card, residence permit or previous certified translations wherever possible.
Wrong sequence
If an apostille is required, it should usually be obtained before the translation so that the apostille can be translated as well.
How to prepare your document for translation
Send a clear scan or a sharp photo of the complete document. All pages, stamps, signatures, numbers, handwritten entries, attachments, reverse sides and any apostille should be clearly visible.
If a specific spelling of your name is already used in your passport, ID card, residence permit or previous translations, please mention it in advance. This helps avoid inconsistencies and reduces follow-up questions from authorities.
Do you need a certified translation?
Send your document as a scan or photo and receive an individual quote for a certified translation for submission to German authorities.
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