When Translation Must Come First

Document translation process before apostille with country flags in the background

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

2. When Translation is Mandatory 

3. Why PEC Translation Services is Essential

4. FAQs

The need for translation in the apostille process isn’t always obvious. Yes, the MEA in India can apostille documents in English, but that doesn’t mean your destination country will accept them as-is. For non-English-speaking countries, official processes often require a certified translation before apostille—and in some cases, the translated copy itself must be notarized and apostilled.

Here’s when translation becomes non-negotiable, and how PEC ensures you get it right the first time.

1. When Translation is Mandatory

A. Destination Country is Non-English Speaking

If you’re sending documents to countries such as:

• Germany

• France

• Spain

• Italy

• Japan

• Brazil

…you’ll likely need a translation in the native language before the apostille.

B. Embassy or Government Requirements

Some foreign embassies and local authorities will not process English documents unless accompanied by a certified translation. This is especially common for:

• Birth certificates

• Marriage certificates

• Academic transcripts

• Police clearance certificates

C. Translation Must Be Apostilled

Certain countries—especially in Europe—require both the original and the translated version to be notarized and apostilled.

For Germany:

1. Translate the birth certificate into German.

2. Notarize both the original and translated versions.

3. Apostille both documents.

2. Why PEC Translation Services is Essential

This is not a process you should leave to guesswork—each country, and often each institution within that country, has unique rules.

• Expert Guidance – We know the exact order and documentation requirements for over 50 countries. No confusion. No errors.

• End-to-End Service – We manage certified translation and apostille under one roof—no need to coordinate with multiple vendors.

• Government-Approved Translators – Our translations are MEA and embassy-compliant, formatted to meet all legal standards.

• Peace of Mind and Convenience – From free document pick-up in Pune to delivery and real-time updates, we make the process stress-free.

FAQ's

1. Which countries require translation before apostille?

Many non-English-speaking countries such as Germany, France, Italy, Japan, and Brazil require translations before apostille.

2. Can PEC handle translation and apostille together?

 Yes, we offer complete, end-to-end service for both.

3. Does the MEA require translation for apostille?

Not if the document is in English, but the destination country’s rules may still require it.

4. How do I know if translation is needed?

Always check with the final receiving authority in your destination country.

5. Are PEC translations accepted by embassies?

Yes, all PEC translations are prepared by government-approved translators in embassy-compliant formats.