How do I translate a criminal record certificate into English?
Use the exact certificate requested by the destination, submit every page and check translation, validity-period and authentication rules with the receiving authority.
Confirm which certificate the application requires
Application instructions may refer to a criminal record certificate, police clearance or another specific document. These names are not always interchangeable. Ask the receiving authority which certificate it accepts and which issuing body should provide it.
Check whether the document must be recent, whether it has a validity period for the application, and whether the authority accepts a translation into English.
What to include with your translation request
Do not redact or edit the certificate unless the receiving authority has explicitly instructed you to do so. If the document contains sensitive information, use the platform's secure upload and sharing process.
- a complete, legible copy of every page;
- the reverse side, stamps, seals and any attached page;
- the destination country and institution, if you can share them;
- the required English spelling of your name, if specified;
- your deadline and any instructions about certification or apostille.
Keep official details consistent
Names, dates of birth, document numbers and issuing-authority details should be translated from the source without guessing or changing the original. Tell the translator if the receiving institution requires a particular spelling that matches your passport.
If any text is unclear or a name differs from another record, ask the issuing or receiving authority how to address it instead of making an unsupported correction.
Check all requirements before you submit
The translator can translate the document, but only the authority handling your application can confirm whether it satisfies the application rules.
- whether the certificate type is the one requested;
- whether it must be issued within a certain time period;
- whether a certified translation or authentication is required;
- whether the original, a certified copy or a specific format is needed.
Frequently asked questions
Is a criminal record certificate the same as a police clearance certificate?
Not necessarily. Authorities can use these terms for different records or procedures. Follow the exact document description in your application instructions.
How long is a criminal record certificate valid?
There is no single period that applies to every application. Check the receiving authority's rules and the date requirements stated in your application.
Do I need a certified English translation?
That depends on the authority receiving the certificate. Confirm whether it requires a certified translation, authentication or both.