There is a fundamental difference between standard and certified translation, especially when a document is to be officially submitted to a state or foreign institution. In such cases, a certified output is required, which cannot be provided by just any translator.
Certified translation must be done by a certified professional
A standard translation can be done by a translator without special certification — they do not need to pass a state exam or be listed in the register maintained by the Ministry of Justice of the Slovak Republic. This is typically used for internal documents, marketing texts, technical manuals, or general correspondence.
In contrast, a certified translation — also referred to as an official or sworn translation — must be carried out by a translator who is officially registered with the Ministry of Justice. These professionals bear legal responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of the translated document. Certified translator services in Bratislava ensure that documents are properly stamped and meet all legal requirements.
When dealing with legally binding texts — for example, birth or marriage certificates, diplomas, court rulings, or contracts — a qualified official translator in Bratislava must handle the translation to ensure its acceptance by authorities. This is particularly important for documents used in legal proceedings, job applications, or university admissions abroad.
Certified translation is necessary for legally binding documents
Authorities require certified translations for documents with legal significance, including birth and marriage certificates, criminal record extracts, diplomas, contracts, notarized documents, or any materials submitted for official use abroad. In such situations, a standard translation would not be considered valid.
For these needs and in case you live right in the capital of Slovakia, it’s important to work with a reliable translator in Bratislava who understands the requirements of certified translations. The Illyria translation agency offers a full range of language services, from initial consultation on the type of translation needed to final delivery — all carried out by certified professionals. Their expertise ensures both linguistic precision and compliance with legal standards.
Whether you’re preparing documents for study, work, or official use abroad, Illyria provides dependable support every step of the way — offering the assurance that your translation will be accepted by the relevant authorities.
When is a certified translation required?
Many people are unsure whether they need a certified translation or if a regular one is sufficient for that particular case. As a general rule, if the document is to be submitted to an institution, court, or foreign authority, a certified translation is almost always required. Common scenarios include applying for citizenship or permanent residency, enrolling at a foreign university, registering a marriage or birth abroad, or filing legal claims in another country. Even when dealing with government agencies or visa offices, certified translations are expected for identification documents, legal records, or anything that proves legal status.
It is always wise to confirm with the receiving institution whether certification is necessary. Submitting the wrong type of translation may result in delays, extra fees, or a complete rejection of your documents.
What is included in a certified translation?
A certified translation is more than just a word-for-word rendering of your document. It typically includes the translated text, a copy or original of the source document, a formal declaration of accuracy by the translator, their official seal and signature, and often a registration number. In Slovakia, these translations must follow specific formatting rules and may be physically bound to prevent any alterations.
Can I translate the document myself and get it certified?
This is a common question, and the answer is no. Certified translators must personally carry out the translation themselves to be able to legally certify it. They cannot simply “stamp” a translation done by someone else — even if that translation is linguistically correct. This ensures that the translation is accurate and officially verified.
Choosing the right translation provider
When selecting a translator or agency, look for someone registered with the Slovak Ministry of Justice, preferably with experience handling your type of document. A good provider will understand the differences between legal systems and formatting expectations across other countries. Transparent pricing, clear timelines, and strong communication are also signs of a professional service. When looking for someone reliable, you should not lower your expectations.
Agencies like Illyria specialize in certified translation and are familiar with local and international legal standards. Their team can guide you through the process, from checking whether certification is required to delivering a complete, court-recognized translation.
