You will likely require a certified translation if you are required to submit official documents in Australia—like a birth certificate or legal contract. For example, an NAATI-certified Bulgarian translator can translate your Bulgarian documents into English for official use.

A certified translation is accompanied by a signed document from an approved translator stating that the translation is accurate and complete. Certified translations are not the same as regular translations, which are accepted by Australian authorities such as courts, immigration (Department of Home Affairs), and universities.

NAATI Accreditation Is Important

In Australia, every government department requires NAATI-certified translations. NAATI certifies translators after rigorous testing to ensure language and ethics standards compliance. Always check your translator's NAATI credential number, which should be printed on their stamp of certification or statement. Uncertified translations can be refused, delay visa applications, or legal processes.

Translations Must be Identical to the Original Documents

Accredited translators do not omit, abbreviate, or alter any information. Each word, official seal, official stamp, and even handwriting on the translation must be included. For instance, if your marriage certificate has a smudged official stamp, it needs to be noted in the translation. Alteration or guessing invalidates the document.

Particular Details Required on Certified Statements

The translator's certification statement must include the following:

• Their name and NAATI membership number.

• A declaration of accuracy.

• Their signature and date.

• Confirmation that they translated from the original document, not a copy.

• Some agencies also ask for contact details or company stamps.

Translations Must Follow Formatting Guidelines

The translated paper should be a perfect duplicate of the original format. Headings, tables, and paragraphs should be aligned. If the original is written in colored text or unique fonts, the translation should replicate these features where achievable. This enables simple cross-checking by authorities.

Some Documents Need Extra Steps

Legal or medical documents typically require additional certification. For example:

• Affidavits: A Justice of the Peace (JP) might be required to sign a witness to the translator's declaration.

• Notarization: Some countries require a notary public stamp on the translation.

Check with the requesting authority to avoid delays.

Translations for Immigration Are Strictly Checked

The Department of Home Affairs discards poorly typed or missing translations. If applying for a visa, make sure your translator is aware of the department's policy. For example, family court documents should include all pages, including blank pages. Omissions can result in visa refusals.

Keep Copies of Original Documents

Always keep the source document and translation together. The authorities may request both to ascertain authenticity. Never submit a translation without the original document unless instructed otherwise.

Special Cases: Unusual Languages or Complex Texts

For lesser-used languages, like Indigenous Australian languages, NAATI accepts translations by non-accredited experts with proven experience. But check with the agency receiving the document first always.

Even common language pairs like translate document from Hungarian to English require certified experts. A technical engineering guidebook, for example, requires a person familiar with industry terminology. NAATI-certified translators ensure specialized terminology gets translated properly without posing legal or safety issues.

How to Check if a Translator is Certified

Ask for proof of NAATI accreditation upfront. Verify their credential number on NAATI’s online directory. Avoid translators who offer “cheap” or “instant” certifications without proper qualifications.

What If Your Translation Is Rejected?

If an agency rejects your translation, contact the translator to fix errors. Most professionals offer free corrections for oversights. For disputes, contact NAATI or seek legal advice.

Certified translations protect you from legal repercussions and provide easy access to Australian government institutions. Be prepared in advance—rush jobs double errors. From academic transcripts to business contracts, use the following guidelines to stay compliant.