- What type of translation certification do I need?
A translation can be certified in two ways:

• Notarial certification (a notary certifies with their signature and stamp that the translator has signed the translation before the notary, thus certifying the authenticity of the translator’s signature);
• Translator’s signature only (the translator signs the translation to certify that the translation is accurate; the translator’s name, surname, identity number, signature, and the place and date of translation appear on the document).

- Can I order a translation certified by a sworn translator?

Many translation agencies state on their websites and in their offices that the services of a sworn translator are available, which is incorrect. In Latvia, the institute of sworn translators does not currently exist, and thus offering the service of a sworn translator is illegal. There is currently no certification of translators or interpreters performed either. In many countries, there are certified and sworn translators and interpreters, which is why you may be asked to provide such a translation. In such a case, we offer to certify the translation with the translator’s signature. This means that the translation is certified by the translation agency with the translator’s signature and the agency’s stamp. Such translations are prepared in accordance with Cabinet Regulation No. 291 dated 22 August 2000 "Procedures for the Certification of Document Translations in the Official Language". Translations in foreign languages are prepared in a similar way. Nearly always when foreign organisations do not require a notarised translation, such a translation certified with the translator’s signature serves the purpose. This better be clarified with the organisation where you are planning to submit the translation. Should you have any questions, please contact us, and we will help you figure it out!

- How much does a translation cost?

The total cost of a translation depends on several factors:

• Size of the source text (the translation cost is calculated based on the number of characters in the text; if the characters cannot be counted in the source text, these are then counted in the target text (in the translation); a standard translation page is 1800 characters with spaces);
• Type of certification (the cost is provided in the Price list);
• Urgency of the translation (extra charge is applied to especially urgent translations; this is usually discussed with the client prior to starting work);
• Target language (into which (and from which) language the text is translated).

- Can I submit someone else’s documents for translation?

Yes, if the persons mentioned in the documents and the owner of the documents have given you permission to do so. When submitting documents for translation, you will need to certify with your signature that you have the right to submit personal data of third parties to the translation agency (and allow us to process your own data if such are found in the documents). If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us in writing or by phone!

- How long does it take to translate a document?

This process depends on several factors:

• Source and target language. The rarer is the language combination, the more time such a translation takes. This is because translators working with rarer languages are busy and not always immediately available for work.
• Size and complexity of the text. The more complex and longer the text, the more time is required to translate it. On average, a translator can translate 5-8 pages in a day (1 page is 1800 characters with spaces).
• Certification of the translation (obtaining a notarial certification requires more time: on average, 1-3 business days).
• Formatting and submission requirements for the translation. Please remember that formatting and printing a document (and sewing together) also takes certain time. If a document has to be received and sent by post, the time required for these services also needs to be taken into account.