A mistake can be very costly, especially in administrative and legal matters. Imagine being rejected for a UK work visa simply because the requisite criminal record certificate was translated incorrectly? It’s far more common than you might think. Want to know how to avoid running into such issues? A good sworn translation will help you sail through all the legal procedures you need to complete in the UK.
What is a sworn translation?
Let’s start from the beginning. Have you ever heard of sworn translations? If this sounds like Greek to you, don’t worry. A sworn translation or official translation is one that, as its name suggests, is faithful to the original document and is official because it’s done from an official document, such as a national identity card, a criminal record certificate, a marriage certificate, etc.
For a translation to be sworn, the translator who performs it must sign and seal it, which proves to the competent authority that it’s an exact translation of the original document in another language.
Who can perform sworn translations in the UK?
It should be noted that in the United Kingdom, unlike other countries such as Spain, there’s no such thing as a sworn translator. In Spain, for example, it’s the Ministry of Foreign Affairs that accredits sworn translators through an official examination.
By contrast, in the UK, these types of translations must be done by accredited translators, usually members of the Institute of Translation and Interpreting (ITI) or the Chartered Institute of Linguists (CIOL). Sorry to say, but no, a DIY translation would not be accepted by the British Administration.
Lost in Translation in official translations in the UK
Remember that when you need an official translation, it’s because the document has to be submitted to an organisation or institution. So, all legal documents such as contracts, certificates, academic degrees or court rulings have legal value. If the translation of these were to be done by a person who isn’t actually qualified to do so, very serious mistakes could occur.
- Alteration of legal meaning
It’s important to remember that legal texts use very precise terminology. This means that if a word is translated incorrectly, it could completely change the meaning of the text. For example, if someone signs a property purchase agreement and the term “deed” is translated as “act” instead of “deed,” the document might not meet the legal requirements for property registration in England and Wales, preventing the transaction from being officially recognised.
- Lack of official recognition
As we mentioned earlier, a DIY translation is not valid in court or before administrative authorities. In the UK, there’s no official system for accrediting sworn translators, which is why the authorities require them to be members of the ITI or the CIOL.
- Absence of professional liability
Did you know that official translators in the UK include a statement of accuracy with their work? This statement ensures that the translation accurately and faithfully reflects the content of the original document. If no accredited translator stands by their work, there is no legal backing for it whatsoever, leaving you at the mercy of any possible errors.
- Risks and problems of not using sworn translations
Documents such as criminal record certificates, academic degrees or work permits must be translated correctly. Errors could lead the Home Office to consider the information incorrect, rejecting the application or requiring additional procedures. Furthermore, if a contract or business agreement is poorly translated, the clauses may be interpreted differently in English and Spanish, resulting in legal disputes, penalties or financial losses.
So, it’s clear that it’s best to play it safe. You don’t want to run the risk of not obtaining a certificate, completing the official process that will enable you to work in the UK, or defending your interests before the authorities. Don’t take any chances and avoid legal errors in the UK. Use a professional translation service.
