Certified translation: Mistakes to avoid absolutely

How not to compromise your administrative procedures

Many administrative procedures fail, not because of the content of the documents, but due to errors related to their translation. Here are the most common mistakes—and how to avoid them.

Using machine translation for an official document

Machine translation tools are now widely accessible. However, they are never officially recognized. They may contain:

• errors in meaning,

• terminological inaccuracies,

• inconsistencies in style or dates.

For an official document, this is an unnecessary risk.

Having a bilingual acquaintance do the translation

Even if someone close to you is perfectly fluent, they cannot certify a translation. Without official certification, the translation will be rejected. This is a common mistake but it will cost you some precious time.

Waiting until the last minute

Administrative procedures are rarely flexible when it comes to deadlines. Waiting until the last minute can lead to:

• unnecessary stress,

• additional costs,

• or even the impossibility to meet a deadline.

Neglecting formatting

A certified translation is not just about the text. Layout, references, dates, and overall presentation also play an important role. Poor formatting can raise doubts about the document’s validity.

Not asking for help when in doubt

Each country, administration, and organisation may have specific requirements. Failing to check can result in having to redo a translation unnecessarily. A simple preliminary exchange can often prevent these mistakes.

Plan ahead to secure your procedures

A certified translation is a key element of an official file. Planning ahead, choosing the right professional, and verifying requirements are the best guarantees of success.

If you are unsure whether you need a certified translation or have questions about a specific document, it is always better to check before taking action.