Requirements summary
- Common certification route
- Certified — confirm the specific procedure
- Authority / starting point
- UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
- Apostille or legalization
- Not a blanket translation requirement. Check the specific submission; overseas use of local documents may require authentication.
The receiving authority decides which documents and translations it accepts. Confirm its current instructions before placing your order; requirements can vary by application and document origin.
Translation requirements at a glance
For UK visitor-visa supporting documents, documents not in English or Welsh need a full translation that the Home Office can independently verify. The translation should include confirmation of accuracy, its date, the translator’s full name and signature, and contact details.
This guide covers visitor-visa evidence. Check separate instructions for other visa routes and institutions.
Before you order a translation
Start with the instructions from the office handling your application. A court, consulate, immigration office or university may use different submission rules.
- Identify the receiving authority and the exact application route.
- Confirm the accepted translation language and translator credentials.
- Ask whether scans, certified copies or paper originals are required.
- Include every page, stamp, seal and endorsement requested by the authority.
Apostille and legalization
A translation and an apostille serve different purposes. An apostille authenticates the origin of a public document; it does not certify the accuracy of a translation.
Whether authentication is needed depends on where the original was issued, where it will be used, the document type and any applicable exemptions. Confirm the requirement and the sequence with the receiving authority before arranging translation or legalization.
Preparing your documents
Keep the source document and translation together. Provide clear, uncropped copies and explain any differences in names or spellings across your documents.
Send Translaze the receiving authority’s instructions alongside your documents so we can identify the appropriate translation and certification service. Acceptance remains the authority’s decision.
Official source
Use the original instructions for your specific application. This guide provides general information, not legal advice or a guarantee of acceptance.
GOV.UK — Visitor visa supporting documents