Guide · Certified translations
How long does a certified translation take, and when is express possible?
Need your translation for a fixed appointment? Work backwards from the submission date and distinguish completion of the translation from delivery of the signed paper copy.
Reviewed on 27 October 2026
The short answer
A completion date can be confirmed after the complete documents and language combination have been reviewed. Volume, legibility and availability affect the work. Paper copies also require delivery time. Urgent processing and faster shipping must each be expressly agreed.
What affects the translation turnaround?
Count more than the visible pages of the main certificate. Reverse sides, stamps, handwritten entries and attachments may belong to the required scope. A complete, readable file helps us assess the assignment correctly and avoid later additions.
Provide the source and target languages and identify the receiving organisation. Differences between a name in a document and a passport, or an unreadable entry, may require clarification. Include a contact method through which we can reach you.
What does express certified translation mean?
An urgent assignment depends on a suitably qualified translator being available for that particular job. Entering a preferred date in a form does not confirm delivery. Ask us to confirm feasibility and any additional charges before you commission the work.
Express shipping concerns transport after a document is ready. It does not automatically shorten translation and checking. For a tight deadline, clarify completion, handover to the delivery service and expected arrival as separate points.
Plan for the actual submission deadline
First establish which version the recipient needs on the day. An uploadable scan and a signed paper copy are different requirements. For a paper submission, do not assume that emailing a copy beforehand will be sufficient.
Our standard delivery within Germany is included. Other shipping methods and international delivery need separate agreement. If you wish to collect the document in Passau, arrange this beforehand; collection also requires the translation to be finished.
Your next steps
Assemble every page, reverse side and attachment.
State the submission date and required paper or digital format.
Confirm processing and shipping separately.
Allow for questions and receipt by the organisation.
More questions
Can a certified translation be completed the same day?
That depends on the documents, languages and available capacity. We cannot promise same-day work for every assignment.
Does express delivery speed up translation?
No. Faster transport and urgent processing are separate matters that must be agreed beforehand.
Can I send a missing page later?
Send it before work starts if possible. Additional content may change the scope, completion date and issued copy.
Prepare your documents and requirements
Start with a free initial estimate or discuss any special requirements with us.
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