Certified Translation with Apostille – The Complete 2026 Guide

A certified translation with apostille is essential for countless international procedures: marriage, birth registration, visas, residence permits, university applications, job processes, diploma recognition and more.
Yet, the process is confusing for most people. What comes first? Apostille or translation? Who is legally allowed to translate? Can scans be used? And how do you avoid unnecessary delays and costs?

The smartest method + our Double Offer (Berlin Translate)

Below is a clear, structured guide with proper paragraphs and real explanations, including the best strategy to get a certified translation with apostille — and a highlight of our transparent Double Offer at Berlin Translate.

1. What does “certified translation” really mean?

A certified translation is an official translation completed by a sworn translator appointed by a German court (for example the Landgericht Berlin).
The translator adds a stamp, signature and certification statement, confirming that the translation is accurate and complete.
Because of this legal status, certified translations are accepted by authorities, registries, embassies, universities, courts and public institutions worldwide.

This is the only type of translation you should use for official procedures.

2. What is an apostille—and why do you need it?

An apostille is an international authentication attached to a document. It confirms that the signature and authority of the issuing institution are genuine.
For Berlin-issued documents, the apostille is typically provided by the Landesamt für Bürger- und Ordnungsangelegenheiten (LABO) or other competent offices.

Many countries require an apostille before they accept a foreign document.
Without it, your document may be considered invalid abroad — which makes the apostille a crucial step.

3. The correct order (the mistake most people make)

Here is the best and safest sequence to avoid extra costs and delays:

Step 1 — Get the apostille first (if required)

Authorities or embassies almost always require the apostille to appear on the original document before translation.

Step 2 — Then request the certified translation

The translator must translate the document + the apostille.
If you send the document without apostille, you risk paying twice once the apostille is added.

This is the #1 optimisation we recommend to all clients.

4. Can a certified translation be done from a scan?

Yes — in Germany, sworn translators are legally allowed to work from high-quality scans or photos.
You do not need to send originals by post unless a specific authority requests a physical copy.

At Berlin Translate, we work 100% online for maximum speed and efficiency.

5. Berlin Translate – Our Double Offer (clear and transparent)

Option 1 – Official Translation with Agency Stamp (Digital, PDF)

  • Price: 35 € per page
  • Delivery: PDF by email
  • Accepted for: companies, employers, applications, private purposes
  • Not valid for: German authorities requiring a sworn translator

Option 2 – Certified Translation by Sworn Translator (Court-appointed)

  • Price: 85 € per page
  • Delivery: PDF + postal shipping
  • Accepted for: all German and international authorities, embassies, visas, German Standesamt, diploma recognition, citizenship, etc.

This double structure is the simplest and clearest way to choose what you actually need — without overpaying.

6. When do you not need an apostille?

Certain countries have bilateral agreements eliminating the need for apostilles.
Examples include some European administrative uses, but this depends heavily on context.

When in doubt, ask the authority requesting your documents — it avoids unnecessary fees.

7. How long does the process take?

  • Apostille: usually 1–10 days depending on the issuing office
  • Certified translation: normally 2–4 working days for most documents
  • Urgent delivery is possible depending on workload

Our agency provides clear timelines before you confirm your order.

8. Why Berlin Translate is the safest choice

  • Work handled exclusively by sworn translators appointed by German courts
  • Fully digital process (fast, secure, convenient)
  • Transparent fixed pricing
  • Reliable delivery accepted by all official institutions
  • Experience with thousands of certificates: births, marriages, apostilles, diplomas…

We focus on a smooth, stress-free experience — especially when clients need documents urgently for deadlines, visa appointments, or administrative applications.

9. Conclusion — The best strategy in 2026

A certified translation with apostille becomes simple if you follow the right order:

  1. Get the apostille first (if required).
  2. Then request the certified translation.
  3. Choose between our two offers depending on your needs.
  4. Send a scan — the process is 100% online.
Scroll to Top