One of the most frequent questions I am asked on a daily basis is whether I provide certified French translations. The answer to this question is simple, but rarely understood. It can be a minefield trying to navigate the various requirements and jargon used. Let me try to be concise to help you understand what is meant by this. Ready? Let’s go.
Understanding the difference between certified, sworn and qualified translators
The first thing we need to iron out is the many different bits of jargon used. There are three main terms which are frequently used online and they can lead to a little confusion. Let’s take a closer look at each:
Certified translator;
Sworn translator;
Qualified translator.
What is a certified translator?
In the UK, a certified translator holds an appropriate qualification and membership of an official body. The translator will issue a letter certifying that the document is a true and accurate translation of the original document, the date, and the name and contact details of the translator or representative of the translation agency.
What about sworn translation?
In the UK, we do not have sworn translators – in fact the closest you will get to this is a certified translator. This tends to be something which exists in a handful of countries – for example France. A sworn translator will be registered with their local court and authorised to provide official translations which have the status of legally-binding documents in the same manner as the original document drafted.
Aren't qualified translators just the same as certified translators?
Technically speaking, no. A qualified translator is merely a term used to refer to someone who holds a degree or other qualification in translation. It does not necessarily mean that the individual is authorised to issue certified translations in the field.
Always ask the translator whether they are certified and feel free to ask for evidence
As you can see above, there are a few terms which are readily used and can simply make things a little confusing if you’ve never come across them. As a certified and qualified translator in the UK, it is my responsibility to make things easier for my clients to understand – this is particularly important when translating their medical documents because it can often already be quite a stressful time for people.
I always recommend that you ask the translator to show evidence of certification status. Anybody who is fully certified will be issued with evidence by the certifying body – for instance, the Chartered Institute of Linguists have an online database of registered translators. This will avoid any nasty surprises further on down the road.
For example, my postgraduate qualifications in Professional Translation and full membership of the Chartered Institute of Linguists in London mean that I am a certified French translator. Each time it is necessary, I provide a signed certification letter with my work for official purposes.
Hopefully this will have cleared up any questions you may have about all of the terminology used. But of course, as with most things, simply asking before you commit will always make things clearer and much easier.