How Does Jobcenter Cover Translation Costs?
A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
This article explains, in clear and structured steps, how to request cost coverage, what requirements apply, and how to avoid common mistakes.
1. Which translations are covered by the Jobcenter?
The Jobcenter only covers translations necessary for your integration into work or training. These typically include:
- School diplomas
- Training or university certificates
- Employment references or letters of recommendation
- Professional certificates
- Birth, marriage, or divorce certificates (if relevant for benefits or family status)
- Documents required for job applications or qualification assessments
The Jobcenter usually does not cover:
- Private translations not related to employability
- Documents needed for immigration, citizenship, or residence (usually handled by the Ausländerbehörde)
2. Eligibility requirements for cost coverage
To receive financial support for translations, the following conditions must be met:
- The translation must be necessary for job integration, qualification measures, or benefit calculation.
- You must not have ordered the translation before receiving written approval.
- The translation must be performed by a sworn/authorized translator in Germany.
3. Step-by-step: How to apply for Jobcenter coverage
Step 1: Appointment with your Jobcenter advisor
Explain why the translation is required. Be prepared to show:
- Which documents you need translated
- The purpose (job application, qualification, official verification, etc.)
Step 2: Submit a cost estimate
The Jobcenter requires a cost estimate before approval. It should include:
- Number of pages
- Price per page
- Total cost
- Whether the translation is certified or not
Step 3: Wait for written approval
Important: Do not place an order yet.
You will receive either:
- Official approval (Kostenübernahme), or
- Rejection
Step 4: Order the translation
Once approved, you can safely order the translation. You will need to provide:
- The original document or a readable scan
- Your preferred delivery method (PDF, postal delivery)
Step 5: Submit or forward the invoice
Depending on your Jobcenter:
- The translation agency can send the invoice directly to the Jobcenter, or
- You receive reimbursement after submitting the invoice yourself
4. How long does the process take?
Typical timeframes:
- Jobcenter approval: 3–14 days
- Translation: 1–4 business days
This can vary depending on workload and document type.
5. Common mistakes to avoid
❌ Ordering the translation before approval → No reimbursement
❌ Submitting incomplete documents → Delays
❌ The translation has no clear relevance to employment → Rejection
❌ Using non-sworn translators → The Jobcenter does not accept it
Tip: Always ask for written confirmation from your advisor.
6. Why professional certified translations matter
German authorities require:
- Accurate and complete translations
- Certified translations with stamp and signature
- Work performed by a sworn translator in Germany
Machine translations or informal translations are not accepted.
Need Jobcenter-covered translations?
Berlin Translate supports you from start to finish
At Berlin Translate, we assist you throughout the entire process:
✔ We create an official cost estimate for the Jobcenter
✔ We provide sworn/certified translations recognized across Germany
✔ Fast turnaround — digital or by post
✔ Transparent pricing
✔ Guidance for the Jobcenter approval process
Thanks to our experience with Jobcenter cases, we know exactly how to ensure your request is processed quickly and smoothly.
If you need help with a cost estimate or certified translation, feel free to contact us — we’ll take care of everything.
