Guide · Certified translations
What does a certified translation look like?
A certified translation involves more than translated text and an arbitrary stamp image. A traceable source and responsible certification matter.
Reviewed on 27 October 2026
The short answer
Typical elements include translated content, identification of the source and the responsible translator’s certification statement. The required form can include a signature, a stamp under applicable rules or other elements. The illustration here explains the structure; it is not a usable certified document.
This illustration contains no actual customer data, signatures or seals. The layout and format depend on the assignment.
Understand the three parts
The source identifies the material translated. The translated text represents that content and makes stamps, annotations or unreadable entries understandable. The certification describes responsibility for the translation and its connection to the source.
Review associated pages together. Document numbers, names and dates help identify the correct record. An impressive stamp cannot make up for a missing page or a different source version.
What does the certification statement confirm?
It concerns the translation rather than authenticity of the source or recognition of the underlying qualification. For court translations, section 142 ZPO describes certification, information about the translator and signature among its requirements. Further requirements can depend on the purpose.
Do not treat a generic certification formula found online as a guarantee. Language, responsible person, scope and issued format must fit your assignment. Visual layouts may also differ without that difference alone establishing quality.
Check the translation you receive
Compare the document type, language direction and page scope against the agreed order first. Check names, figures and identification of the source. Raise questions using a separate marked copy rather than writing directly into the certified document.
Do not detach connected parts simply to photocopy them. Ask about a suitable additional copy if several recipients need documents. For electronic files, establish whether you have a scan or an electronically signed version.
Your next steps
Match the source and translation clearly.
Compare names, numbers and page scope.
Check certification and the required format.
Mark questions separately and retain the issued copy unchanged.
More questions
Does a stamp image alone certify a translation?
No. The responsibly issued translation and the elements required for its purpose matter.
Can I submit the illustration on this page?
No. It is purely a diagram without actual customer data, a signature or a usable seal.
Does the translator authenticate my original document?
Certification concerns the translation. It does not include separate authentication of the source record.
Sources and further reading
The receiving organisation’s current instructions matter for your assignment. Send them to us with your documents.
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