Guide · Certified translations
Which records and translations does the BVA require for resettler applications?
An ethnic German resettler procedure can involve several generations and different versions of family records. An overview across the family helps with preparation.
Reviewed on 27 October 2026
The short answer
Use the BVA checklist for the admission procedure. It describes complete copies, appropriate certification and translations of foreign-language evidence by sworn translators. For birth and marriage records it also lists country- and issue-date-specific apostille exceptions. Check each certificate individually.
Match people and generations clearly
Create a table of each person, relationship, birth date and available records. Identify name changes and different scripts using supporting evidence rather than silently standardising surnames.
Keep the original-language version, copy and translation as a matched set. Clear filenames help prevent similar birth or marriage records belonging to different people being mixed up.
Check copy certification and apostilles separately
BVA guidance distinguishes proper copy certification from merely certifying a translator’s signature. Check the confirmation actually required rather than simply whether a seal appears somewhere.
Record the issuing country and issue date of each certificate. These details matter for the published apostille exceptions; do not assume an exemption covers a later reissued record.
Read more: Federal Office of Administration: records for ethnic German resettler applications
Coordinate additions with the existing set
For an additional request, include the checklist item and new certificate with your enquiry. Identify the parts already translated and the source version used.
Keep the versions actually submitted in a separate folder. This helps with family questions and avoids distributing an old draft when further records are added.
Your next steps
Use the current BVA admission-procedure checklist.
Record the person, country and issue date for each certificate.
Check copies, translations and authentication separately.
Enquire with the complete scope and clear document matching.
More questions
Is this the same as naturalisation?
No. Use the checklist for the ethnic German resettler admission procedure, not a general naturalisation list.
Does every certificate need a new apostille?
Check BVA requirements and the stated exceptions against the actual certificate.
Should I omit a damaged reverse side?
Show the existing condition completely and clarify legibility or replacement records. Do not independently omit existing entries.
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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