When seeking translation services in Germany, it’s crucial to understand the different types of translators, each specializing in various fields, to ensure your documents meet specific requirements with precision and clarity. Before getting your documents translated, always check with the relevant institution to understand their specific requirements.

Types of Translators in Germany

Sworn Translators

Sworn translators are authorized by a court to provide translations that are legally binding. They often translate official documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, legal contracts, and court documents. In German, they are know as “vereidigter Übersetzer”, “allgemein beeidigter Übersetzer” , “ermächtigter Übersetzer” or “öffentlich bestellter Übersetzer”

Qualification

They must pass a stringent examination and take an oath before a regional court, affirming their accuracy and impartiality.

Usage

Required for documents that will be used in legal proceedings or need to be recognized by governmental institutions.

Officially Certified/ Accredited Translators

Officially certified or accredited translators are recognized by professional bodies or governmental institutions for their expertise and accuracy in translation.

Qualification

They typically hold certification from recognized institutions or associations and may specialize in specific fields such as medical, technical, or business translations.

Usage

Suitable for documents requiring a high level of accuracy and specialization but not necessarily needing a legal stamp of approval.

General Translators

General translators provide translations for a wide range of documents without specific legal or official recognition. They handle everyday translations such as business correspondence, marketing materials, websites, and personal documents.

Qualification

While they may not have formal certification, many are highly skilled and experienced in their respective languages and fields.

Usage

Ideal for non-legal, non-official documents that require clear and accurate translation for general understanding.

Dolmetcher vs Übersetzer

An Übersetzer is a Translator and a Dolmetcher is an Interpreter

Translators work in writing.
Interpreters work orally.

How do I find a translator

Here are some websites you can use to search a service provider in your area

The Dolmetscher- und Übersetzerdatenbank der Landesjustizverwaltungen contains almost all court-authorised, sworn and certified translators in Germany.
Search in the Datenbank des BDÜ – Bundesverband der Dolmetscher und Übersetzer
Search on the DVÜD – Deutscher Verband der freien Übersetzer und Dolmetscher e.V.

For Translators in South Africa, the German mission in South Africa has a list of certified translators. The list can be found their website