Crucial considerations for the certification of translated source documents. Customers seeking translations are not required to provide original copies of the documents. If there is uncertainty about the documents being submitted for translation, it is advisable to request that customers have the copies certified at a police station or through a notary prior to translation.

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Guidelines and requirements when preparing sworn translations in South Africa: Court enrolled Translators.

As a sworn translator, you are automatically enrolled in the roster of commissioners of oaths in accordance with the Justices of the Peace and Commissioners of Oaths Act. Consequently, you are required to stamp each page of the source document after translation. This stamped document should then be attached to the back of the translated document before binding them together with a ribbon and ready sticker, if applicable.

To ensure that the translated document complies with legal standards, follow these important steps:

Begin by carefully reading the original document. It is essential to familiarize yourself with its content, context, and any specialized terminology that may require special attention.

Translation:

Translate the document into the target language, ensuring accuracy and fidelity to the original text. Pay close attention to nuances, legal terms, and idiomatic expressions to convey the intended meaning effectively.

Formatting:

Maintain the original document’s format in the translation. This includes preserving headings, sections, and punctuation to ensure consistency.

Note: If you receive a document from [email protected] in PDF format and cannot convert it to an editable Word format, please email us to request a conversion before translation. We have the necessary tools and software to convert documents to all applicable languages for our in-house translators.

Certification:

After completing the translation, prepare a certification statement. This statement should include a declaration affirming that you are a sworn translator and attest to the accuracy and completeness of the translation. For an example, please refer to the provided link.

Signature and Stamp:

Sign the document and, if applicable, apply your official stamp or seal. This step is crucial as it adds authenticity to the translation. If you are unable to apply the seal, you may request our assistance in applying it along with a ribbon after the translation is completed.

Copy of Certification:

Do not include a copy of your sworn translator certification or credentials with the translated document. However, the copy of your certification statement must include your case number, full name, or ID number.

Documents Retention:

Retain copies of both the original document and the translated version for your records in case future verification is required. Please note that you are permitted to keep these copies for six months, after which they must be deleted from your device. Additionally, do not share client documents with any third parties.

Corrections post-translation:

As a sworn translator, it is essential to acknowledge that errors may occur at any stage during the translation process. Should a client request amendments, no additional fees should be imposed for these revisions.