Translations

Transcription and transliteration

When translating civil status documents, birth certificates, marriage certificates and other official records, the correct rendering of names is crucial. Cyrillic names may appear in different spellings depending on whether transcription or transliteration is used.

Transcription follows pronunciation more closely. Transliteration, by contrast, transfers letters from one writing system into another according to a defined system. For official documents, this distinction is important: names must remain traceable, consistent and acceptable for administrative use.

Transcription

Transcription is the rendering of a name or term according to its pronunciation in another language system. Unlike transliteration, it does not focus on the exact transfer of each individual character, but on readability and pronunciation in the target language.

This is particularly important when a name already appears in a passport, visa, residence permit or other official document in a specific spelling. A professional translation takes such existing spellings into account to avoid unnecessary discrepancies.

Authorised translators

Not every professional translator is authorised to produce certified translations. Only sworn, authorised or publicly appointed translators may certify a translation with a certification clause, date, signature and stamp.

A certified translation does not independently authenticate the original document. It confirms that the text of the document has been translated completely and accurately from the source language into the target language. This form of translation is often required for authorities, courts, registry offices, universities and consulates.

Legalisation and certification

Legalisation confirms the authenticity of a public document through the competent diplomatic or consular representation. It concerns the original document, not the translation.

Certification of the translation, by contrast, confirms the completeness and accuracy of the translation. These procedures serve different legal purposes and should not be confused.

Superlegalisation of a translation

Superlegalisation additionally confirms the authenticity of the signature and stamp of an authorised translator. It is not always required, but may be necessary in certain international procedures.

The receiving authority decides whether superlegalisation is needed. It is therefore advisable to clarify in advance whether a standard certified translation is sufficient or whether additional confirmation of the translator’s authority is required.

Apostille

An apostille certifies the authenticity of a public document for international legal use under the Hague Convention. In many cases, it replaces the more complex legalisation procedure.

An apostille is not issued by the translator. However, if an apostille forms part of the document, it is translated together with the document as part of the certified translation.

Preparing documents for use abroad

A certified translation intended for use in Germany or abroad is not automatically suitable for every procedure. Requirements vary depending on the country, authority and purpose of submission.

Before ordering a translation, it is therefore advisable to clarify whether an apostille, legalisation, superlegalisation or a specific spelling of a name is required. Careful preparation saves time and reduces the risk of follow-up questions from authorities.