Certified Translation Services

Whether you require certified translations for immigration, study, or business purposes, Espresso Translations can meet all your translation requirements. With expert native-speaking translators and a dedicated team of translators and interpreters, we bring over 20 years of experience within the translation industry. We are one of the leading translation companies—a trusted language services provider whose certified translations are accepted by UKVI, universities, courts, and official institutions worldwide in more than 150 languages, including all major language combinations. Every translation project is completed in accordance with ISO 17100:2015 international standards to ensure documents satisfy specific official requirements. We support private individuals, businesses, law firms, and institutions, with clients throughout the United Kingdom and across the globe, supported by experienced project managers, effective project management, and reliable translation workflows. Alongside our document translation services, we also provide professional interpreting services, enabling clients to rely on a single trusted language services partner for all their linguistic requirements.
Our clients consistently recommend our services, and we guarantee work that is accurate, compliant, and delivered on time.

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Translation of your documents with standard turnaround times.

Professional translation services with an attached certification of accurary, signed, stamped and on company letter-headed paper. Hard copies can also be requested.

Professional translation services regarded as having formal status by relevant authorities. Hard copies are included. Please indicate the country you need the translation to be sworn in in the Project Brief section.

Translation of your documents with faster turnaround times. Please indicate in the Project Brief section how quickly you would need them.

The conversion of audio or video content into a translated written form. We also offer same-language transcriptions. Please indicate if time-stamps are required and at what intervals in the Project Brief section.

The conversion of video audio into foreign-language subtitles. We also offer same-language subtitles. Delivered as an SRT file as standard. Please indicate in the Project Brief section if a different file type is required.

Voiceover recordings in foreign languages. We can either translate your script into other languages or you can provide a foreign-language script. Please provide speaker preferences (gender, accent etc.) in the Project Brief section.

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Premium: Native Translation + Native Revision

Economy: Machine Translation + Light Native Revision

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Premium: Native Transcription

Economy: Machine Transcription

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Economy: Machine Voice Over

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Translation Agency Reviews

Our translation agency delivers expert language solutions to clients around the globe. Our experienced linguists, project managers, and customer support team work together to provide accurate, reliable translations for both businesses and individuals. We’re committed to clear communication, on-time delivery, and exceptional service quality. See what our clients say about working with us.

Denisa Mansaku

“Certified translations were finished really quickly and professionally, good price and they responded quickly to all my questions.”

Hanna

“Have used Espresso Translations on multiple occasions for certified translations, quick response and speedy translations every time. Thank you Niki!”

Antonio Papa

“I recently used their certified translation service and couldn’t be happier with the results! The team was professional, responsive, and delivered my documents on time.”

UKVI-Approved Certified Translation Services by Espresso Translations

Our certified translations are accurate, complete, and fully compliant with the standards expected by UKVI, universities, courts, and other official bodies. Failure to provide the correct translation, or errors within the certification details, can delay your application, result in refusal, or lead to requests for additional evidence. Whether your translation is completed by a freelance translator or a translation agency, the certification must satisfy the same official requirements. Espresso Translations provides UKVI-compliant certified translations tailored to meet all relevant regulations.

As an experienced translation agency, we provide certified documents accepted by UKVI, UK courts, universities, government departments, local authorities, and embassies worldwide, with prices starting from just £30 per page. Every document is translated and certified before being reviewed by a second translator from our network of more than 2,000 accredited linguists. Each translator possesses extensive experience and fluency in the relevant language and dialect. Before delivery, every translation undergoes verification in accordance with ISO 17100:2015 standards to ensure the highest level of quality and accuracy.

Digital copies are supplied free of charge within 24–48 hours, with same-day delivery available when an immigration deadline is particularly urgent.

Certified translations are frequently required when a foreign-language document is submitted to a UK government department, court, university, employer, professional body, or public authority. Such documents must be translated into English by a qualified translator and accompanied by a signed certification confirming the completeness and accuracy of the translation.

UKVI, universities, courts, professional regulatory bodies, mortgage lenders, embassies, solicitors, and other organisations commonly require certified translations of degree certificates, academic transcripts, bank statements, criminal record certificates, business documents, and other official records.

Each certified translation includes a signed Certificate of Translation Accuracy (CTA) on company letterhead, containing the translator’s name and contact details, a statement of accuracy, and confirmation of the translator’s competence. To minimise the risk of delays or requests for further evidence, every visible element of the original document—including stamps, handwritten notes, official seals, and marginal text—is faithfully reproduced within the translation.

Contact us for official certified translations of your legal, academic, medical, and business documents, with fast turnaround and no compromise on quality. Our certified translations for foreign documents are backed by responsive customer service, clear communication, and legal translation services that meet the highest international standards.

Certified vs Notarised vs Sworn Translation: What UK Authorities Actually Require

It is important to understand the difference between certified, notarised, and sworn translations before preparing documents for UKVI or any official authority. Many applicants purchase the wrong type of translation due to conflicting information online, which can result in delays and unnecessary expense. Each type is explained below, together with what UK authorities generally require and accept.

Certified Translation: The Standard UK Requirement

The USCIS requires each non-English document for any green card, visa, citizenship or adjustment of status (AOS) application under 8 CFR 103.2(b)(3) and it needs to be certified translated for USCIS. Espresso USCIS-certified translations will include your Certificate of Translation Accuracy, including a representation, on behalf of the translator, that the translation is accurate, and that the translator is competent, as required by USCIS, along with the important details of your translator’s name, details, and date. Most USCIS Birth Certificate translations, marriage certificate translations and passport translations can be provided within a 24-hour turnaround or less, with same-day USCIS translations if the full USCIS immigration requirement deems it necessary. Espresso Translations offers specialized USCIS-certified translation services to provide you with certified translations for immigration.

Notarised Translation: When Additional Verification Is Needed

A notarised translation differs from a certified translation because it involves a Notary Public verifying the identity and signature of the translator. The notary does not verify the accuracy or quality of the translation itself.
UKVI does not generally require translations to be notarised, and a notarised document without the appropriate certification may not satisfy official requirements. However, certain courts, foreign consulates, overseas authorities, and universities may request notarisation in addition to a certified translation. Espresso Translations can provide notarised translations as an additional service where required.

Sworn Translation: Required in Civil Law Countries

A sworn translation (sometimes referred to as a translation under oath) is a distinct legal format primarily used in civil law jurisdictions, including France, Spain, Italy, Germany, and Brazil. In these countries, a sworn translator is authorised by a court or government body to produce translations with legal validity.Sworn translations are not normally required for UK immigration or UKVI applications. If your documents are intended for use in a country that requires sworn translations, Espresso Translations can advise on the appropriate requirements and provide high-quality sworn translation services where necessary.

Our UK Certified Translation Services

Espresso Translations is one of the leading translation companies offering accessible, professional translation services. We certify a translation for every kind of official document, and our translation services include certified translation for immigration, academic, financial, and legal documents. Our translation services help individuals and businesses meet official requirements, and certified translations may also be paired with notarisation or Apostille when an institution requires it.

Certified Translation for UKVI and Immigration Purposes

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requires that any non-English document supporting a visa, settlement, British citizenship, Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), or other immigration application be accompanied by a certified translation. Our UKVI-certified translations include a Certificate of Translation Accuracy containing the translator’s declaration of accuracy and competence, together with the translator’s name, contact details, and the date of certification — exactly as UKVI requires. Most birth certificates, marriage certificates, and passport translations are delivered within 24 hours or less, with same-day service available when an immigration deadline is urgent.

Certified Birth Certificate and Vital Record Translation

A certified birth certificate translation is one of the most commonly required certified documents for UK visa applications, citizenship applications, marriage registration, and official identification purposes. Espresso Translations reproduces birth certificates in their original format — including registration numbers, handwritten entries, stamps, official seals, and signatures — without alteration, regardless of the issuing country. UKVI does not normally require a birth certificate translation to be notarised; the Certificate of Translation Accuracy is the essential requirement, and it is typically delivered within 24–48 hours.

Certified Academic Credential Translation for Universities

Degree certificates, diplomas, academic transcripts, and school reports often require certified translation for UK immigration applications, professional registration, employment purposes, or admission to a UK university. Our certified academic translations are accepted by leading UK universities, including the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge, Imperial College London, and other higher education institutions throughout the United Kingdom. We faithfully reproduce the layout, grades, course titles, and institutional details of the original document. Certified degree translations and certified school report translations are typically completed within 24 hours and are available across all major language combinations. You can employ our certified university degree translation and certified school report translation services to get accurate translations of your academic documents.

Certified Bank Statement and Financial Document Translation

Bank statements and financial document translations are frequently required for UK visa applications, mortgage applications, university funding applications, immigration submissions, and company formation within the United Kingdom and other English-speaking countries. Account numbers, transaction histories, dates, and monetary amounts are reproduced exactly as they appear on the original bank statements, tax documents, or financial records, ensuring acceptance by UKVI, UK banks, mortgage lenders, universities, and other institutions. Certified bank statement translations are generally completed within 48 hours or less, starting from £30 per page, with expedited services available for urgent deadlines. Espresso Translation offers certified bank statement translation services, ensuring accuracy and precision in the financial documents and bank statements.

Certified Criminal Record and Police Clearance Translation

Immigration background checks, adoption proceedings, university admissions, legal matters, and Home Office or UKVI applications often require a certified translation of a criminal record certificate, police clearance certificate, or background check. Espresso Translations delivers every certified criminal record translation with a Certificate of Translation Accuracy, independently reviewed by a second qualified linguist in accordance with ISO 17100:2015 standards.

All criminal record documents are handled under strict confidentiality agreements to protect sensitive information, and Apostille certification is available for documents intended for use overseas. You can easily get a certif i ed criminal record translation by employing our Espresso Translation services.

What Your Certified Translation Includes?

Understanding exactly what should be included within a certified translation package helps ensure your documents are accepted by UKVI, universities, courts, and public authorities the first time they are submitted. Missing certification details, incomplete translations, and omitted stamps or seals are among the most common reasons documents are delayed or rejected. As a global certified translation provider serving clients throughout the United Kingdom and internationally, Espresso Translations supplies fully compliant translations that satisfy both UKVI and institutional requirements, while preserving every element of the original document.

Complete Translated Document and Original Formatting

With a certified translation from Espresso Translations, the entire document is translated and laid out to match the original — tables, stamps, seals, signatures, and handwritten entries included. Each translation comes with a signed Certificate of Translation Accuracy (CTA) on Espresso Translations letterhead, showing the translator’s full legal name, contact details, the date, a statement of competency, and a declaration of the accuracy and completeness of the work. Certified translations are delivered as a signed PDF by email, with a hard copy available on request.

UKVI Compliance & Translation Accuracy Requirements

For UKVI compliance, every visible element of the original document must be reproduced, including official stamps, seals, handwritten notes, letterheads, marginal text, and any content appearing on the reverse side of the document. A single omission can result in a request for additional evidence and may delay an immigration application. Our expert translators review every translation for both accuracy and completeness, ensuring that the final document is accurate, comprehensive, and suitable for official submission.

How Our Certified Translation Process Works?

Espresso Translations has streamlined its translation process to ensure that every document is translated accurately, complies with UKVI requirements, and is delivered promptly. Dedicated project managers oversee each project from document submission through to final delivery.

Step 1: Upload

Place your order by attaching your document to our secure online Espresso form in any format — PDF, JPEG, PNG, Word, or photo. You will see an instant online price and a free quote, and you can make sure all four edges are visible so the text can be translated correctly.

Step 2: Assignment

Your document is matched to a native-speaking translator with the right specialisation to translate documents accurately: a legal translator for contracts and court papers, an academic translator for diplomas and transcripts, or a financial translator for bank statements and tax returns. The translator produces a complete, word-for-word translation that mirrors the original layout.

Step 3: Quality Review and Certification (QRC)

A second independent native-speaking linguist reviews the translation for accuracy and takes care to verify terminology, accuracy, and completeness under ISO 17100:2015, drawing on deep expertise in linguistics. The Certificate of Translation Accuracy is then issued on Espresso Translations’ letterhead with all required components.

Step 4: Delivery

You receive your certified translation with a signed, stamped certificate and the translator’s signed statement, delivered as a PDF to your inbox within the agreed timeframe — typically 24–48 hours, or same day for urgent cases. A hard copy is available on request.

Certified Translation Pricing and Turnaround

Certified translation is priced from £30 per page (up to 250 words), giving you a transparent online price and competitive rates. Standard (non-certified) translation, by contrast, is priced per word. The price covers a full, word-for-word translation into your chosen language plus the Certificate of Translation Accuracy on Espresso Translations letterhead, delivered free by email.

Turnaround for a certified translation is typically 24–48 hours from receipt of the document, with same-day service available for urgent immigration, legal, or academic deadlines. Notarisation is available where required, and Apostilles can be issued for documents used abroad. Printed copies and a cover letter are provided on request. Get a free quote within one minute, then place your certified translation order with confirmation within one hour through our online translation services.

UKVI Translation Requirements and What They Require for Certified Translations

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) applies specific requirements to all foreign-language documents submitted as part of an immigration application. These requirements set out exactly what a certified translation must contain and represent the official standard applicants should follow when submitting supporting documents.

Official UKVI Requirement for Certified Translation

UKVI requires that any document not written in English or Welsh be accompanied by a full translation that can be independently verified. The translation must be completed by a qualified translator or translation company, who must confirm that the translation is an accurate and complete representation of the original document.
The certification must include the translator’s or translation company’s confirmation of accuracy, the date of translation, the translator’s full name and contact details, and evidence of their qualifications or suitability to undertake the translation. There is no requirement for a specific licence or membership of a professional body. However, the translator or translation company — not the applicant — must certify the accuracy and completeness of the translation. UKVI does not maintain or endorse an approved list of translators.

What UKVI Checks Before Accepting a Translation

UKVI may request additional information or supporting evidence if a certified translation is incomplete or incorrectly prepared. The most common issue is missing content: every stamp, seal, signature, handwritten note, and illegible element must be included within the English translation or clearly identified as “Official Stamp”, “Handwritten”, or “Illegible”.
Another common issue is an incomplete Certificate of Translation Accuracy (CTA), which should include the translator’s full name, contact details, date of certification, and confirmation of both accuracy and competence. Self-translated documents may be questioned because they are not considered independently verified. Properly prepared certified translations help minimise delays and reduce the likelihood of requests for further evidence.

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Notarised Translation and Apostille Services

Some documents submitted to courts, universities, consulates, or international authorities require more than a standard certified translation.

When Notarised Translation or Apostille Is Required

Where a certified translation alone is insufficient, Espresso Translations also provides notarised translations and Apostille certification. A notarised translation is a certified translation that additionally bears the signature and seal of a UK Notary Public, confirming the identity of the translator. An Apostille may be required alongside, or instead of, a certified translation for certain overseas universities, courts, consulates, government authorities, and employment verification procedures.

International Authentication Through Apostille Services

If a document will be used in a country that is party to the Hague Convention, an Apostille may be required so the certified translation is internationally recognised. Espresso Translations delivers accurate Apostille services to keep your certified translations usable abroad. You can find full details on requirements and costs on our Notarised Translation page.

Sworn Translation for Documents Submitted in Civil Law Countries

For documents presented to a judicial, governmental, or official institution in Italy, France, Spain, Germany, Brazil, or another civil law country, a sworn translation may be required instead of a certified translation. A sworn translator is officially authorised — by oath before a court officer — to produce translations that are legally equivalent to the original in that country.

Espresso Translations works with sworn translators across civil law jurisdictions in 150+ languages. You will find the requirements for each country on our Sworn Translation Services page, including traduction assermentée (France), traduzione giurata (Italy), and more.

What is a certified translation?

A certified translation is a complete, word-for-word translation of an official document accompanied by a signed Certificate of Translation Accuracy, in which the translator confirms that the translation is complete and accurate and that they are competent and qualified to translate from the source language to the target language.

Does UKVI require a notarised translation?

No. UKVI requires a certified translation that meets its published requirements. There is generally no requirement for the translation to be notarised. The certified translation must include a Certificate of Translation Accuracy completed by the translator or translation company.

Can I translate my own documents for UKVI?

No. UKVI expects translations to be independently verified by a qualified translator or professional translation company. For this reason, applicants should not certify their own translations.

Does UKVI accept Google Translate?

No. UKVI requires a human translator who can certify their competence and confirm that the translation is accurate and complete. Machine translations, including Google Translate, are not accepted for official immigration applications.

Do I need to translate stamps and seals on my original document?

Yes. Both the front and reverse sides of the original document must be translated, including stamps (marked as “Official Stamp”), seals, handwritten notes, and any information appearing on the reverse side. Missing elements are one of the most common reasons additional evidence may be requested.

How much does a certified translation cost per page?

Certified translation starts at £30 per page (up to 250 words). The price includes the translation, the Certificate of Translation Accuracy on company letterhead, and free electronic delivery — a competitive rate among certified translation companies.

How long does it take to get a certified translation?

Most documents are delivered within 24–48 hours. Short documents, such as birth and marriage certificates, are often ready in 24 hours or less. For urgent deadlines, same-day delivery is available.

What happens if UKVI rejects my certified translation?

UKVI may request further evidence if information is missing from the translation or the Certificate of Translation Accuracy, which can delay the processing of an application. If a translation prepared by Espresso Translations is questioned due to a certification issue, we will revise the translation free of charge to ensure it satisfies the relevant requirements.