Navigating German bureaucracy often requires certified translations (beglaubigte Übersetzungen in German). Whether it’s for a visa, a job application, or registering for school, having an accurate, officially approved translation is crucial. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about certified translations in Germany, including when you need one, how to get it, and why I would always choose Beglaubigung24 for official translations.

What is a Certified Translation in Germany?

A certified translation is an official translation of a document completed by a sworn or court-approved translator. These translators certify the accuracy of the translation with their stamp and signature, making it valid for use in legal, governmental, and academic contexts.

Instead of struggling to find an individual translator within the public database, I’ll save you some time and send you to Beglaubigung24 for quick and affordable certified translations. You only need a clear scan or image of your document—no originals are required! Plus, the price is displayed immediately after uploading, so there are no surprises.

When Do You Need a Certified Translation?

Certified translations are often required in Germany for:

• Visa or residency applications
• Birth, marriage, or death certificates
• Academic transcripts and diplomas
• Work contracts or employment documents
• Driver’s licenses (e.g., for exchange programs)
• Legal documents like wills or contracts

For commonly needed documents such as birth certificates or driver’s licenses, Beglaubigung24 offers an express option for popular language pairs, including EN↔DE, ES↔DE, and IT↔DE.

How Much Does a Certified Translation Cost?

The cost of a certified translation in Germany can vary depending on several factors such as the length and complexity of the document, the language pair, and the translator’s rates. Here’s an overview of what you can expect from traditional certified translators in Germany.

• Price per word: Typically, traditional sworn translators charge a per-word rate, which can range from €1.50 to €3.00 per word depending on the language and complexity of the document.
• Flat rates: Some translators offer flat rates for common documents like birth certificates, diplomas, or contracts. Flat rates can range from €30 to €70 for standard documents.
• Additional costs: Some translators may also charge extra for certified copies, delivery fees, or rush services.

One of the significant advantages of Beglaubigung24 is its transparent pricing model. After you upload your document (scan or image), you’ll see the exact cost immediately—no need to request an offer or wait for a quote. Their prices are competitive, and they offer affordable certified translations starting at €19.90 for simple documents.

The 10 Most Common Questions About Certified Translations in Germany

1. Who Can Provide a Certified Translation in Germany?

In Germany, only sworn translators (beeidigte Übersetzer) are authorized to produce certified translations. These professionals are officially appointed by a court and must certify the translation’s accuracy with a stamp and signature.

If you prefer a fast and convenient online option, Beglaubigung24 works exclusively with court-approved, ISO-certified translators to ensure legal compliance and high quality.

2. Can I Get a Certified Translation Online?

Yes, certified translations are now available both in person and online:

• Traditional translators: You can find a local sworn translator through directories like BDÜ (Bundesverband der Dolmetscher und Übersetzer). You’ll usually need to visit their office or send physical copies of your documents.
• Beglaubigung24: Offers an entirely digital process—just upload a scan or image of your document. No need to mail originals or visit an office.

3. How Long Does It Take?

Timelines vary depending on the translator’s workload, the document’s complexity, and whether the original document needs to be mailed. It can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.

Faster processing can be done online, including an express option for common documents (e.g., birth certificates, driver’s licenses) in popular language pairs like EN↔DE or ES↔DE, with delivery in as little as 48 hours.

4. Do I Need to Send the Original Document?

Yes, many translators require the original document to verify its authenticity before producing a certified translation. This means you’ll need to mail or deliver the original in person.

However, Beglaubigung24 allows you to upload a clear scan or photo, saving time and effort. No originals are needed for processing, making it ideal for those without immediate access to the document.

5. What Languages Can Be Translated?

Traditional translators offer a wide range of language options, especially for less common languages. However, finding a specialist for rare languages can take longer. Most online platforms specialize in popular language pairs like English, Spanish, Italian, and German, ensuring quick turnarounds for the most commonly requested translations.

For less common language pairs, contacting a traditional sworn translator might be the better option.

6. What’s the Difference Between Certified and Notarized Translations?

• Certified translations: Provided by sworn translators and accepted for most official purposes in Germany (e.g., visas, school registration).
• Notarized translations: Require additional validation by a notary public, typically needed for legal use outside of Germany.

7. How Are Certified Translations Delivered?

Traditional translators often provide physical copies by mail. Some may offer pickup or email a scanned version, but the certified hard copy is typically required for official use.

Online services like Beglaubigung24 will mail your certified translation in a protective folder to keep your documents safe and organized.

8. Are Certified Translations Recognized Internationally?

Certified translations are accepted across the EU but may require additional authentication (like an apostille) for use outside Europe. Always check with the requesting institution beforehand.

9. What If My Translation Has an Error?

You’ll need to contact the translator directly to correct any errors. This may involve additional time. It’s also important to pick a translator with a good reputation to avoid this from happening.

10. Can I Translate Personal Letters or Informal Documents?

While certified translators primarily focus on official documents, many sworn translators also handle informal or personal translations on request. This does however cost you more money than if you were to hire a basic translation service online.

Why I Choose Beglaubigung24 for Certified Translations

When time, quality, and affordability matter, Beglaubigung24 is the ideal solution. Here’s why:

• No originals needed: Upload scans or images for easy processing.
• Quick process: Certified translations are completed in as little as 48 hours.
• Transparent pricing: See costs immediately—no waiting for quotes.
• ISO-certified quality: Guaranteed accuracy from trusted professionals.
• Award-winning support: Recognized by WELT for excellent customer care.
• Secure delivery: Documents arrive in a protective, professionally designed folder.

Certified translations are a necessary step in navigating German bureaucracy, but they don’t have to be stressful. Whether you need a translation for your visa, a marriage certificate, or a driver’s license, all the information you need to help you is right here.