Types of translation

Types of translation - how does standard translation differ from certified translation?

Certified translation (sworn translation) is a translation accepted by public authorities, courts, administration units and other State offices. A certified translator is a person enjoying public trust, specializing in translating litigation or official documents. A certified translator is also entitled to authenticate copies of such documents made in foreign languages. Additionally, a certified translator is authorized to certify translations or authenticate copies of documents made by other persons.

Each certified translation or authenticated copy of a document shall be sealed with a seal minted by the State Mint, with the circumscribed translator's full name and designation of the language translated, and with the entry number in the List of Certified Translators placed in the centre.

Each document translated or authenticated by a certified translator shall contain the entry number in the translator's register. Additionally, each such document shall contain information whether the translation was made from the original document or its translation, copy or photocopy. In case the translation was made from a photocopy, the translator shall indicate whether and by whom it had been authenticated.

Specimen seal and signature are filed at the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland.

A certified translator can also provide certified interpreting services - e.g. at a Notary Public's office or at the Registry Office.

Standard translation - is a translation needed in everyday exchange of information. It is often used by individuals, e.g. in private correspondence, but most often by companies which do business with foreign entities. Standard translation is used for preparing multi-language websites, for publishing brochures and catalogues, for business correspondence and many more. As opposed to certified translation, standard translation does not require the translator's seal or signature, (hence, a printout on paper), so it can be sent by e-mail.

Standard interpreting may be required e.g. during any kind of business meetings, teleconferences, etc.