Frequently asked questions
Certified translation "based on the original" or "based on a copy"?
At the end of each certified translation must indicate whether it was prepared on the basis of an original or a copy. As a rule, the original is a document such as a university diploma, a medical certificate, the original copy of a notarial deed or the original contract. However, a copy is an exact representation of the original document (e.g. a photocopy, scan, printout of an electronic document).
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If the original is to be translated, it must be presented to the translator. In practice, for the translation itself, I only need scans or photos, and the original document should be presented only upon receipt of the translation.
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If the translation is made on the basis of an excerpt, I always attach a printout of the source document to it.
How many copies of the translation will I get?
The translation is issued in one copy. At the client's request, I can prepare more copies for an additional fee.
If the translation is based on the original, do I have to leave it for the duration of the translation?
There is no such necessity. For the translation itself, clear scans or photos of the document are enough for me, the original must be presented at the time of receipt of the translation. Otherwise, I will have to include information on the translation that it was made on the basis of an excerpt.
Is the translation combined with the original?
It is not necessary, however, at the client's request, the translation may be combined with the original.
How can I get the translation?
The translation can be collected in person or, for an additional fee, it can be sent by post or courier.
What if the document to be translated is multilingual?
If the document has been prepared in several languages, the translation will contain information that it only covers fragments prepared in English / Polish, while the remaining fragments will be omitted or possibly, depending on the case, rewritten.
Can a certified translation cover only a part of the document?
Yes. At the express request of the client, selected fragments of the document (e.g. selected pages) may be translated, and in such a case, the translation will always contain the exact information which part of the document has been translated.
What is the participation of a sworn translator during a meeting at a notary?
The main task of the translator during notarial activities is to translate "live" the content of the concluded notarial deed. My experience also shows that a notary public often lays down orally about the content of given legal provisions, clarifies doubts or changes the agreement with the client. I can also help in such situations.
Can the translation be produced and signed electronically?
Yes. I have a qualified electronic signature for signing certified translations, which has the same force and effect as a handwritten signature in the entire European Union. However, for the time being the signature is used primarily for cross-border transactions as Polish authorities tend to reject documents signed electronically.