You need a certified translation whenever a foreign-language document is submitted to an official body – for naturalisation, marriage, studies, the recognition of a diploma or the formation of a company. UniTranslate translates and certifies in more than 100 languages and offers all common types of certification: from simple office certification through to consular legalisation for countries outside the Hague Convention.
Which form is required is always decided by the receiving body. Simply tell us where you are submitting the document – we will recommend the right option and prepare it for you.
All types of certification at a glance
Translation with office certification – the simplest and quickest option: stamp, signature and certification note from our translation agency. Often suitable for universities, job applications, employment references and insurance documents.
Notarised translation – a notary additionally confirms the signature of the person who produced the translation. Chosen by many Swiss authorities, for example for naturalisation, marriage or the commercial register.
Translation with apostille – for use abroad: with the apostille, the State Chancellery confirms the authenticity of the notarisation. Applies to all states party to the Hague Convention.
Super-legalisation – for countries outside the Hague Convention, the step that comes before consular legalisation.
Consular legalisation – when the destination country additionally requires certification by its consulate. We prepare the entire chain.
Translation with a qualified electronic signature (QES) – legally valid as a PDF by email and, under the Swiss ZertES, treated as equivalent to a translation with stamp and signature. Ideal when a deadline is pressing.
Translation by sworn translators – recognised by many authorities even without notarisation, particularly for English.
Not sure which option is the right one? Upload your document via the quote form and tell us the receiving authority – our advice is free and without obligation.
Where certified translations are required in Switzerland
Requirements differ depending on the country, canton, document and intended use. Certified translations are frequently used at these bodies:
State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) and cantonal migration offices: for visa applications, residence permits and naturalisations.
Swiss courts: for judgments, contracts, legal opinions and legal correspondence.
Tax administrations: for tax returns, annual financial statements and financial records.
Universities and higher education institutions: for diplomas, certificates and academic transcripts.
Municipalities and civil registry offices: for marriage, birth, naturalisation and civil status documents.
Our translations are geared to these requirements; we know them from many years of practice and prepare your documents accordingly. The final, binding decision always rests with the official receiving authority.
How it works
Upload your document as a scan or a photo via the quote form – we do not need the original. Within 30 minutes during office hours you will receive a binding quote with a fixed price and delivery date. Once you confirm, a specialist translates, a second pair of eyes checks names, dates and figures, and the translation is then certified. Delivery is by A Mail, registered post or as a PDF with a qualified electronic signature. What a certified translation costs is shown on the page certified translation costs.
Security and confidentiality
Your documents contain sensitive data. Files are transferred in encrypted form, all translators and members of staff sign strict confidentiality agreements, and our processes are reviewed regularly to ensure compliance with current data protection rules.
Request your no-obligation quote now – we will get back to you within 30 minutes with costs and delivery time.
FAQ
What is a certified translation?＋
A translation that is firmly attached to the copy of the source document with a stamp, signature and certification note. With it we confirm that the translation is accurate and complete. Authorities, courts and universities generally accept such a translation as an official document.
Which type of certification do I need?＋
That depends on the document and on the receiving authority. We offer every type of certification and will recommend the right option as soon as we know where you are submitting. The final word always rests with the competent authorities; if you have any questions, we are happy to help.
Do you need my original document?＋
No. A scan or a clearly legible photo is enough – your original stays with you.
How quickly can it be done?＋
Usually within one to three working days, or in 12 to 24 hours with express. You will receive the binding quote with a fixed price and delivery date within 30 minutes during office hours.
In which languages do you offer certified translations?＋
In more than 100 languages, including combinations without German. Translations are produced by qualified specialist translators, generally native speakers of the target language.
