Do You Need a Translation Before Getting an Apostille?
In many cases, yes. If you’re submitting South African documents to a country where English or Afrikaans isn’t an official language, the receiving authority will likely require a certified translation before they accept the document. This translated version must then be apostilled to ensure it’s legally valid in the destination country. Translation and apostille go hand-in-hand — especially when applying for visas, citizenship, or foreign employment.
What Types of Documents Usually Need Both?
Any document being sent abroad could potentially need both translation and apostille. The most common examples include:
- Birth and marriage certificates
- Academic transcripts and diplomas
- Divorce decrees
- Police clearance certificates
- Legal contracts or court orders
If the country you’re dealing with isn’t part of the Hague Convention, additional legalisation steps may also apply. But for most international uses, apostille documents with sworn translations are enough.
Who Can Translate Documents for Apostille Use?
Only sworn translators are accepted. That means someone officially registered and certified to translate legal documents. A casual translation or one done with an app like Google Translate won’t be recognised. In fact, using an uncertified translator could get your application denied or delayed. Always use a registered professional — and make sure the translation is stamped, signed, and dated.
Can You Submit the Original and Translation Together?
Yes, and in fact, you should. When applying for the apostille, both the original document and its certified translation are submitted together. In some cases, the translation itself is apostilled. In others, the translated version is attached to the original, and the combined set is apostilled as one. The rules vary by document type, but the goal is the same: ensure both versions are legally valid abroad.
How Long Does the Process Take from Start to Finish?
If you’re doing everything yourself — translation, notarisation, and apostille — it could take several weeks. That includes finding a sworn translator, getting the translation certified, and then submitting it to DIRCO for the apostille. If you’re in a rush or want to avoid delays, using a professional service like Doc Assist can cut this down to 7–10 working days for most apostille documents, depending on complexity.
What Happens If the Translation Isn’t Accurate?
An inaccurate translation can cause major setbacks. It could result in visa denial, legal confusion, or rejected applications. Remember, foreign authorities are relying on your paperwork to be accurate. If your marriage certificate says one thing in English and something else in the translated version, you’ll have problems. That’s why accuracy — and working with the right professionals — matters.
Doc Assist Handles Your Apostille Documents — Start to Finish
Doc Assist takes care of the entire process for you. Whether you’re applying for a work visa, emigrating, or managing legal affairs overseas, we’ll make sure your apostille documents are accepted the first time. Let us do the admin — so you can focus on the journey ahead.