Arabic Certified vs Notarised Translation
When submitting translated Arabic documents to authorities, you'll often see requirements for "certified" or "notarised" translations. These terms are frequently confused, but they mean different things and serve different purposes.
Quick Answer
Certified Arabic translation includes a signed statement of accuracy from the translator. Notarised Arabic translation adds a notary public's official seal and signature. Most UK authorities (including UKVI) only require certified translation.
TL;DR
Certified Arabic translation is sufficient for most UK purposes including UKVI and Home Office applications. Notarisation (£180+) is only needed for international legal use. Don't pay for notarisation unless specifically required.
Key Facts
Understanding the Difference
Choose the right level of authentication for your Arabic documents
Arabic Certified Translation
Translator's Declaration
The Arabic translation includes a signed statement from the translator confirming accuracy and completeness. This is the standard requirement for most official purposes in the UK.
Starting from
Fixed fee/document
- Signed accuracy statement
- Native Arabic translator credentials
- Company stamp/letterhead
- Contact details provided
- Accepted by UKVI/Home Office
- Valid for UK courts and authorities
Best for:
UK visa applications, university admissions, DVLA, banks, employers, and most UK government departments.
Arabic Notarised Translation
Notary Public Authentication
A notary public verifies the Arabic translator's identity and witnesses their signature. Adds an extra layer of legal authentication for international use.
Starting from
£180+ (incl. notary fee)
- Everything in certified, plus:
- Notary public seal
- Notary's signature
- Legal authentication
- Required for some Arabic-speaking countries
- May need apostille for Gulf/MENA use
Best for:
International legal matters, Arabic-speaking country submissions, foreign court cases, and overseas property transactions.
When to Use Each Option
UK Immigration (UKVI/Home Office)
Arabic documents for visa applications, settlement, citizenship, asylum claims.
University Applications (UCAS)
Arabic academic transcripts, diplomas, and qualification certificates for UK university admissions.
DVLA Licence Exchange
Converting an Arabic driving licence to a UK licence.
UAE/Saudi/Gulf Embassies
Documents for submission to Arabic-speaking country embassies.
International Court Cases
Arabic legal documents for use in foreign court proceedings.
UK Banks & Employers
Arabic identity documents, employment records, and financial documents.
Key Things to Know
UKVI Accepts Certified
The UK Home Office explicitly states certified Arabic translation is acceptable. Notarisation is not required for UK visas.
Cost Difference
Notarisation adds £150-200+ to the Arabic translation cost. Only pay for it if specifically required.
Time Difference
Certified Arabic translation: same day possible. Notarised Arabic translation: typically 2-3 additional working days.
Gulf Country Use
For use in UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, etc., check if notarisation and apostille are required.
Both Are Official
Both certified and notarised Arabic translations are legally valid. The difference is the level of authentication.
Apostille for Arabic Countries
Most Arabic-speaking countries are Hague Convention members and may require an apostille.
What Makes an Arabic Translation "Certified"?
A certified Arabic translation includes a signed declaration from the native Arabic translator or translation company stating that the translation is accurate and complete. The certificate typically includes:
- The Arabic translator's name and qualifications
- The date of translation
- A statement of accuracy
- The translator's signature
- Company details and contact information
This certification carries legal weight - the Arabic translator is legally accountable for the accuracy of their work.
When is Arabic Notarisation Required?
Notarisation of Arabic translations is typically required when documents will be used internationally, particularly in Arabic-speaking countries. Common scenarios include:
- Property purchases in UAE, Saudi Arabia, or other Gulf countries
- International business contracts with Arabic partners
- Legal proceedings in Arabic-speaking countries
- Immigration to certain countries
- Academic credentials for use in the Middle East
Always check with the receiving authority before paying for notarisation - many organisations actually accept standard certified Arabic translation.
Apostille for Arabic-Speaking Countries
An apostille is a government-issued certificate that authenticates documents for international use. Most Arabic-speaking countries are members of the Hague Convention. The process is:
- Arabic translation completed
- Notary public authenticates
- Foreign Office applies apostille
We offer a complete apostille service for Arabic documents, handling the entire process from translation through to apostille application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this topic
No. The UK Home Office (UKVI) explicitly states that Arabic translations must be certified but do not need to be notarised. A certified Arabic translation with translator details and a signed accuracy statement is sufficient for all UK visa and immigration applications.
Certified Arabic translation is available at a competitive fixed fee per document. Notarisation adds approximately £150-200+ to this cost (notary fees vary). Only pay for notarisation if specifically required by the receiving authority.
Arabic notarisation typically adds 2-3 working days to the process, as we need to schedule an appointment with a notary public. Certified Arabic translation alone can often be completed same-day.
Most Gulf countries require notarisation and often an apostille. Check with the specific authority or embassy. We provide complete legalisation services for Arabic-speaking country requirements.
Many Arabic-speaking countries (including UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt, Jordan, Morocco) are Hague Convention members and may require an apostille for official documents. Check with the receiving authority.
In the UK, we use "certified translation" rather than "sworn translation". For UK purposes, a properly certified Arabic translation meets official requirements.
Have more questions? Get in touch with our team
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