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Guide: Translating and certifying official documents in Germany
1) What is the difference between translation and certification?
| Procedure | Definition |
|---|---|
| Certified translation (Beglaubigte Übersetzung) | Translating the document into German by a court-sworn / officially authorized translator |
| Certification / notarization of copies (Beglaubigung) | An official stamp confirming that a paper copy matches the original, or that a copy is officially verified |
2) Certified translation: how and where?
Who is allowed to produce a certified translation?
Only an officially recognized, sworn/authorized translator (vereidigter Übersetzer / beeidigter Dolmetscher) who is accepted by German courts.
They must be registered/recognized in Germany as an authorized translator.
Where can I find an authorized translator?
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Use the official database: justiz-dolmetscher.de
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Enter:
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Language (e.g., Arabic)
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Postal code or city
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You can also search on Google:
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“beeidigter Übersetzer Arabisch + [your city]”
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Documents that are commonly required to be translated:
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High school certificate or university degree certificate
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Transcript of records
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Birth and marriage certificates
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Employment references and experience certificates
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Passport or ID card
How much does a translation cost?
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Typically around €20–€50 per page
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The price depends on the document type and how many certified copies you need
3) Certifying documents: how and where?
A) Certifying paper copies (Kopiebeglaubigung)
Sometimes you must certify that the paper copy matches the original. This can be done at:
| Place | Can certify? |
|---|---|
| Bürgeramt (municipal office) | Yes, often for various documents |
| School / university | Usually only for copies of their own certificates/documents |
| Notary (Notar) | Yes, but typically higher fees |
| German embassy (in your home country) | If you are outside Germany |
Cost: often around €3–€10 per copy (depending on the authority and scope).
B) Certifying foreign documents (e.g., Apostille or legalization)
If your documents were issued outside Germany, a university or authority may request:
| Type | Definition |
|---|---|
| Apostille | An international authentication stamp, usually issued by justice/foreign-affairs authorities in the issuing country |
| Legalisation | A confirmation process through the German embassy/consulate in the issuing country |
Note: In many cases, you may not need this if you are a refugee and you submit documents within Germany—requirements can vary by authority.
4) Can I send the documents by mail?
Yes. Universities and authorities usually accept:
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certified, stamped copies (not the original)
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certified translations by sworn/authorized translators
Important: Do not mail your original documents.
5) Your steps in short
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Prepare all required original documents
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Find a sworn/authorized translator and translate the documents into German
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Go to the Bürgeramt to certify paper copies if needed
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Send the documents to the relevant institution (university, BAMF, Jobcenter, etc.)
6) Do you need a formal request letter for translation or certification?
I can prepare a template in German or English to contact the translator or the authority.
Tell me:
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your city
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which documents you want translated or certified
and I will guide you toward the most relevant local offices.
Disclaimer: The editorial team strives to provide accurate information through thorough research and consultation of multiple sources. However, errors may occur or some details may not be fully confirmed. Please treat this as initial guidance and always consult the responsible authorities for official confirmation.
