What to do if…
you are asked for a certified translation of a travel document and you do not have one

What to do now

1. Get the exact requirement before paying for anything.

   • Ask which document needs translation, which language it must be translated into, whether it must be a full translation, whether a scan or PDF is acceptable, and the exact deadline.
   • Ask whether the translation needs a signed statement, stamp, letterhead, translator credentials, or a professional translation company.
   • Ask them to confirm this by email, message, or in the application portal if possible.

2. If it is for a UKVI or Home Office process, match the route guidance exactly.

   • For UK visitor visa evidence, documents not in English or Welsh must be accompanied by a full translation that can be independently verified by the Home Office.
   • That translation must include confirmation that it is an accurate translation of the original document, the date of translation, the translator’s full name and signature, and the translator’s contact details.
   • Other UK immigration routes may ask for extra details, such as the translator’s or translation company’s credentials, so check the instructions for your specific application.

3. Make the document ready for a translator now.

   • Scan or photograph every page clearly, including stamps, seals, handwritten notes, and the back of the document if it has marks.
   • Keep the images in order and save them as one file if you can.
   • Keep the original safe and make a backup copy of the scan.

4. Ask for a short extension or conditional acceptance.

   • Use simple wording: “I do not have the certified translation with me. I can obtain one by [time/date]. Can you accept the original or scan now and the certified translation by then?”
   • If you are at an airport, port, appointment desk, or document-check desk, ask for a supervisor to confirm what will be accepted.
   • Write down the name or role of the person who confirms the requirement.

5. Order the translation using the exact wording you were given.

   • Tell the translator or translation company what the document is for, such as UK visa, airline check-in, overseas authority, school, employer, or local appointment.
   • Send the requester’s written requirement to the translator.
   • Ask the translator to include the required certification wording, date, name, signature if required, contact details, and credentials if required.

6. Separate translation from apostille or legalisation.

   • If someone mentions apostille, legalisation, authentication, notarisation, or certified copy, ask: “Do you need this as well as a certified translation?”
   • Only start legalisation or apostille steps if the organisation asking for the document has clearly said it needs them.
   • Check whether the original document, the translation, or both are supposed to be legalised.

7. If you are already abroad, use the accepted local route.

   • Ask the local authority, airline, school, employer, or appointment office whether they require a locally recognised translator, sworn translator, notary, or ministry-approved process.
   • Do not expect a British embassy, high commission, or consulate to translate your document.
   • Use GOV.UK professional-services information or the local authority’s own translator route if you need to find someone locally.