Document Guide

UK Official Documents -- What You May Need Translated

Before ordering a sworn translation, it is useful to know exactly what document you have, whether it is the right version, and how to get a replacement if needed. This guide covers the documents we most commonly translate.

Document Types

The Most Commonly Translated UK Documents

Birth Certificate

Issued by the General Register Office (GRO) or local register office. There are two versions: a short certificate (extract) and a full (long) certificate showing parental details. Many foreign authorities require the full version. Replacements: gro.gov.uk.

Marriage Certificate

Issued by the register office where the ceremony was registered. Both civil and religious ceremony certificates are accepted. Replacements: GRO or the relevant local register office.

Death Certificate

Issued by the register office for the area where the death was registered. Replacements can be ordered from the GRO or local register office.

Decree Absolute

The final divorce order issued by the court. Note: the Decree Nisi (provisional order) is not sufficient -- you need the Decree Absolute. If you do not have a copy, contact the court where the divorce was granted.

DBS Certificate

Issued by the Disclosure and Barring Service. Three levels: Basic, Standard and Enhanced. Many foreign employers require a certificate issued within the past 3-6 months. Apply via gov.uk/dbs-check or through an umbrella body.

Deed Poll

A legal document recording a formal change of name. Deed polls can be unenrolled (self-prepared) or enrolled (formally registered through the Senior Courts). Some foreign authorities require an enrolled deed poll -- check which is needed.

UK Driving Licence

The UK photocard driving licence issued by the DVLA. Both the front and reverse are translated as standard. Ensure your licence is current and not expired before ordering for exchange purposes.

Academic Documents

Degree certificates, diplomas and transcripts issued by UK higher education institutions. Ensure you have an official copy -- a student portal printout is typically not suitable. Contact your institution's registrar for certified copies.

Sending Your Document

Do You Need to Post the Original?

For Translation Only

No. A clear scan or good-quality photo of your document emailed to us is all we need. You do not need to post the original. We will let you know if the image quality is not adequate.

If an Apostille is Also Required

When an apostille on the original document is also needed, the original will need to be posted to us for that process. We will advise you on this when you place your order.

Also offered by 1Apostille

Need an Apostille on the Original Document?

Many foreign authorities require both a sworn translation and an apostille. Our parent service 1Apostille.org.uk can arrange both.

Visit 1Apostille.org.uk
Questions

Common Questions

Many register offices and issuing bodies can provide replacement certificates. For birth, marriage and death certificates, contact the General Register Office at gro.gov.uk. For court documents such as a Decree Absolute, contact the court where the order was made.

If your document contains errors (incorrect name spellings, wrong dates), it is advisable to seek a correction before ordering a translation -- particularly if the document will be used for official purposes abroad. A translation of an erroneous document will reflect those errors.

Many foreign authorities, particularly in Spain and Italy, require the full (long) birth certificate which includes parental details. The short extract may not be accepted. Confirm which version is required with the receiving authority before ordering.

Ready to Order Your Sworn Translation?

£90 per page · English to Spanish, Italian, French or German · Email your scan · PDF by email

Order via 1Apostille.org.uk