The use of the word “Certified” in the translation industry is a frequent source of confusion because we use the same term for two different reasons. Here we explain the differences!
What is a Certified Translation?
When public authorities need a certified translation of a document that is not in the required target language – for example, a marriage, death, or degree certificate – it is important that a qualified, registered translator or translation company is used.
In many countries, there exists a system of certified, state-authorised, or sworn translators. In the UK, where there is no legislation for producing certified translations, clients are advised to use a translator or translation company with a clear affiliation to a recognised professional body or association such as the Association of Translation Companies (ATC), the Institute of Translation and Interpreting (ITI) and the Chartered Institute of Linguists (CIOL).
ATC, ITI and CIOL maintain easily accessed public registers of accredited companies and translators:
- atc.org.uk/member-directory/ for Accredited Member Companies
- iti.org.uk/iti-directory.html?directory_type=translator
- ciol.org.uk/translator
Read more about best practices for the certification of translations in the UK in the ATC-CIOL-ITI Getting It Right Guide.
What Is an ISO Certified Translation Company?
An ISO Certified Translation Company refers to a translation service provider (TSP) that has adopted one or more international standards into their business, and undergone an impartial audit and certification process, which can be provided by ATC Certification.
The are several ISO standards relevant to translation companies including:
- ISO 17100 – Requirements for Translation Services.
- ISO 18587 – Post Editing Machine Translation Output.
- ISO 20771 for Legal Translators, Revisers & Reviewers.
These ISO standards are developed by industry stakeholders, including ATC, to provide a set of requirements for the translation process and translator competency, meaning companies who operate to these standards are working to best practices.
In this case the ISO Certification applies to the Translation Company, because it is the result of an impartial audit of the company’s processes against the requirements of a standard, not the translated output document.
Get a Quote for ISO Certification.
Which Certification Do I Need?
Whether you need to become an Accredited Member of the ATC, enlist the services of a professional translator capable of certifying a translation, or have your company certified to ISO Standards depends on your needs.
Certified translations are typically required for submitting official documents to the authorities, where the authenticity of the translation needs to be verified. For commercial purposes, certification to an ISO standard will give you, your suppliers, and your clients the reassurance that your operations comply with international best practice, and have been independently audited.
