Lesson 16 Translation of formal texts Theoretical part

4 Does quality matter?
The simple answer is no. With this sort of translation, quality is a given. An approved translator passed an exam a number of years ago. And that´s normally enough guarantee for the receiving body.
Many countries translate official documents like this. It certainly doesn´t guarantee quality in any way. But it has the advantage that nobody bears any responsibility whatsoever when things go wrong.
Every day, people around the world need to translate official documents for various reasons. The most common situations involve travel, work and immigration, but any process that involves interacting with another government might require official document translation. 
Whether you are going overseas for education, working on an international project, or moving to a new country, it can be overwhelming to deal with bureaucracy and understand another government’s requirements. This article explains the basics of how official document translation works and what you need to know to find the right services.
What is official document translation?
If you need to translate a document for governmental or official purposes, it probably needs a certification or validation that confirms that the translation is accurate and complete. This is what official document translation refers to.
Each country has its own requirements for making sure translated documents are valid. The process usually involves obtaining a stamp, signature or seal from a person authorised by the authorities to provide such documentation. 
Standards are high for official translations because even one spelling mistake or misrepresentation of a word or concept can invalidate the document. To learn how to translate official documents, translators undergo special training. They must understand the basic ideas behind the content’s legal requirements and implications.
Documents that commonly require official translations
This list includes the most common official document translations that people request. However, it is far from exhaustive. Each government decides which documents they want translated, so any document could require official translation if the authorities ask for it.

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  Wills and deeds
  
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  Birth, marriage, divorce and death certificates
  
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  Adoption paperwork
  
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  Driving records
  
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  Business and financial records
  
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  Job contracts
  
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  Licences and permits
  
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  Diplomas and transcripts
  
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  Medical certificates and records 
  
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  Background checks and criminal records