How to translate documents for your UK Visa application

Advice & Resources

When you make a UK visa application you will need to submit a translated version of any documents that are not written in English.

For example:

  • birth certificate
  • bank statement
  • marriage certificate

You must submit these translated documents along with the original documents.

The translated documents must be:

  • Made by a professional translator or translation company
  • Include confirmation by the translator that it is an accurate translation of the original document
  • Include details of the translator or translation company credentials
  • Include the translators full name and signature or the full name and signature of an authorised official of the translation company

If any of the requirements are not met, then you will have to get the documents translated again.

Your visa application could be refused if the translated documents you submit do not meet these requirements.

Josh Lindsey
Josh Lindsey

Immigration lawyer with more than 20 years of consulting experience

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VisaHelpUK - UK Immigration and Visa Application Advice Service
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  1. Avatar photo
    K D

    Thank you so much!

    Reply
  2. Avatar photo
    Saurabh Verma

    Hello,

    Would the translated document need to be notarized or attested as well?

    Reply
    1. Josh Lindsey
      Josh Lindsey author

      Hello Saurabh,

      Thank you for your question. In order to provide an accurate response, it’s important to consider the specific requirements of the UK Visa application process.

      When it comes to translating documents for your UK Visa application, the general rule is that the translation should be accurate, complete, and certified. While there is no specific requirement for notarization or attestation of translated documents, it is recommended to provide additional evidence to support the authenticity and accuracy of the translation.

      You can consider having the translation notarized or attested by a qualified professional, such as a registered translator or a solicitor. This can help establish the credibility of the translation and provide assurance to the UK Visa authorities.

      Additionally, it is always a good idea to check the specific requirements of the UK Visa application you are applying for, as different visa categories may have slightly different requirements regarding translated documents.

      I hope this information helps. If you have any further questions or concerns, please feel free to ask.

      Warm regards,
      Josh

      Reply
    2. Avatar photo
      Martin

      Hi Josh,

      I looking at the requirements for a UK Spouse visa and documents are submitted online. Do I need to also provide the physical original certified translation document at some point, like when attending the visa interview?

      Thanks.

      Reply
      1. Josh Lindsey
        Josh Lindsey author

        Hi Martin,

        Thank you for reaching out. When it comes to the requirements for a UK Spouse visa, it’s important to note that documents are indeed submitted online. However, physical original certified translation documents are generally not required during the visa application process.

        The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) usually accepts scanned or electronic copies of the required documents, including translations. As long as the translations are accurate and complete, there is typically no need to provide physical originals.

        Regarding the visa interview, it’s important to clarify that for most UK Spouse visa applications, there is no in-person interview requirement. However, in some cases, the UKVI may request an interview if they need further information or clarification on your application. If an interview is scheduled, it is advisable to bring any original documents that you have submitted online, including the certified translation documents, for verification purposes.

        In response to Saurabh Verma’s question about notarization or attestation of translated documents, it’s worth noting that the UKVI does not usually require translations to be notarized or attested. However, it is important to ensure that the translations are accurate, complete, and prepared by a professional translator who is proficient in both English and the language of the original document.

        I hope this clarifies your query. If you have any further questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to ask.

        Warm regards,
        Josh

        Reply
  3. Avatar photo
    Martin

    Hi Josh,

    I looking at the requirements for a UK Spouse visa and documents are submitted online. Do I need to also provide the physical original certified translation document at some point, like when attending the visa interview?

    Thanks.

    Reply
    1. Josh Lindsey
      Josh Lindsey author

      Hi Martin,

      Thank you for your question regarding the translation requirements for a UK Spouse visa application. I understand that you are concerned about whether you need to provide the physical original certified translation document at some point, such as during the visa interview.

      When submitting your documents online for a UK Spouse visa, you are generally not required to provide physical original certified translation documents during the application process. The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) typically accepts scanned copies of the translated documents as part of the online submission.

      However, it’s important to note that the UKVI may request the original certified translation documents or any additional supporting documents if they require further verification or if there are concerns regarding the authenticity of the translations. In such cases, they will inform you through the appropriate channels, such as email or by updating your application status online.

      If you receive a request for the physical original certified translation documents, it’s essential to provide them promptly and as per the instructions provided by the UKVI. Failure to comply with their requests may result in delays or complications with your visa application.

      Additionally, it’s advisable to keep the original certified translation documents with you when attending the visa interview, as the immigration officer may ask to see them for verification purposes. It’s always better to be prepared and have the original documents available if needed.

      I hope this clarifies your query. If you have any further questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to ask.

      Warm regards,
      Josh

      Reply