5 Costly Mistakes When Ordering Document Translation
From our experience, clients most often make the same mistakes that lead to document rejection and unnecessary costs.
Over years of work we've seen hundreds of cases where clients spent money and time on document translation — only to find everything was done incorrectly. We've compiled the most common mistakes so you can avoid them.
Mistake 1: Not Clarifying the Purpose of the Document
Before ordering a translation, always confirm with the relevant authority (consulate, university, employer) exactly what they accept: a simple translation, a notarial translation, translation + apostille, or something else. Requirements vary between institutions.
Mistake 2: Ordered a Translation Instead of a Notarial Translation
A client orders a "passport translation," receives a quality translation with an agency stamp — and brings it to a notary or consulate. Only to be refused. They then have to pay the notarial fee on top. Always ask upfront whether notarial certification is needed.
Mistake 3: Wrong Order — Apostille Before Translation
The correct sequence is: translation → notarial certification → apostille on the notarially certified translation. An apostille on the original without a translation means the foreign authority simply cannot read the document.
Mistake 4: Translated into the Wrong Language
Someone is going to the Czech Republic and orders a translation into English — "because it's an international language." But Czech authorities require a translation into Czech. Always verify: which specific language does the destination country require?
Mistake 5: Left It Too Late
Apostilles, notarial translations, documents from various authorities — all of this takes time. The standard apostille processing time is from 3 business days. We recommend starting document preparation at least 2 weeks before your deadline.
What to Do Right
Contact us before ordering a translation. We'll give you a free consultation: what to translate, into which language, whether a notary is needed, whether an apostille is required — and how long the process will take.