Visa Deadline in Days? Here's How Fast You Can Get a Certified Translation

Standard delivery is 3 to 6 business days for the complete process. You'll receive the certified PDF by email first, often within 1 to 3 business days for simple documents. The physical original with stamp and signature follows by post. When you submit your quote request, include your deadline and we'll confirm whether it's achievable.

Many German embassies and the Ausländerbehörde accept a printed PDF of the certified translation for your initial appointment. The PDF contains the translator's stamp, signature, and registration number. However, some authorities require the paper original at a later stage. We recommend calling your specific authority beforehand to confirm, or bringing both the printout and the posted original once it arrives.

No, a clear scan or photo is sufficient. Our sworn translators work from digital copies. The certification notes that the translation was made from a copy, which is accepted by German authorities. Keep your original documents safe at home. Only if your authority specifically requires the translation to be attached to a beglaubigte Kopie (certified copy) would you need to arrange that separately.

You pay after you receive your translation. The invoice arrives with your completed translation, and you have 14 days to pay by bank transfer. No credit card needed, no upfront payment required. Your translation is in your hands before you pay anything.

No, the translation speed only affects how quickly you receive the translated document. The embassy or Ausländerbehörde processing time remains the same. However, submitting complete documents early helps avoid delays. Missing or incorrect translations can suspend your application until corrected. According to the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF), complete documentation is essential for smooth visa processing.