What is a certified translation and when do I need one?

A certified translation is a translation accompanied by a signed statement affirming that it is an accurate and complete representation of the original document. Certified translations are required by USCIS, courts, schools, employers, and many government agencies for official use.

 

What types of documents can you translate?

We translate a wide range of documents, including:

• Birth, marriage, and death certificates

• Diplomas and transcripts

• Divorce decrees

• Legal contracts and affidavits

• Medical records

• Resumes and employment forms

If you have a unique document type, just ask — we can usually accommodate it.

 

How do I submit my documents for translation?

All document translation services are handled fully online. You can submit your documents by scanning and emailing them to us, sending them via fax, or uploading them through our secure client portal. We do not accept walk-in visits or in-person document drop-offs, and we do not provide document translations on the spot at a physical location.

 

Once we receive your documents, our team will review them and determine the appropriate translation, certification, and turnaround requirements. Formal estimates are provided by email based on the documents received and the specific services requested.

For interpreting services, we currently offer phone and video remote interpreting (VRI). All interpreting services are arranged remotely and do not require an in-person appointment.

 

What file formats do you accept?

We accept most common formats, including PDF, JPG/PNG scans, Word documents, and more. If you’re unsure whether a file type is acceptable, send us a message and we can help.

 

Can I request rush or expedited translation services?

Yes — we offer expedited turnaround when time is critical. Rush services may incur an additional fee depending on the length and complexity of the document, but we always confirm timing and cost before processing.

 

Are my documents kept confidential and secure?

Absolutely. We handle all documents with strict confidentiality and protect your information throughout the translation process. Nondisclosure agreements or additional privacy measures are available for sensitive materials.

 

Can translations be notarized?

Yes — Silver Bay Translations offers notarized translations in over 75 languages for a variety of state, government, educational, and other official purposes.

All notarizations are completed electronically through Remote Online Notarization (RON). This allows the notarization process to be completed securely online and includes an electronic notarial certificate and digital signature in accordance with applicable requirements. All RON notarizations are completed electronically and use digital signatures; original ink signatures are not provided for RON notarizations.

 

Certified Translation Signatures

Most standard certified translations, including translations commonly submitted to USCIS, are provided electronically with digital signatures. For customers who require a physical hard copy of a non-notarized certified translation, we can provide copies with original ink signatures in-house for translations in the following languages:

• Spanish

• Portuguese

• French

• Italian

• Dutch

• German

Hard-copy availability with an original ink signature is currently limited to these six languages.

 

DMV, BMV, MVC and Driver's License Translations

For DMV, BMV, MVC, driver's license, and identification document translations, signature options depend on whether notarization is required.

If notarization is required, the translation is completed through Remote Online Notarization (RON) and includes a digital signature. This applies to all notarized translations, including DMV, BMV, MVC, driver's license, and identification document translations. Original ink signatures are not provided for RON notarizations.

For non-notarized certified DMV, BMV, or MVC translations in Spanish, Portuguese, French, Italian, Dutch, and German, we can provide an electronic copy with a digital signature or a hard copy with an original ink signature prepared in-house.

 

Shipping Hard Copies

FedEx is our preferred shipping provider for customers who request physical copies of their completed translations. Applicable shipping costs will be included in your quote.

If you require a hard copy with an original ink signature, please let us know before placing your order so we can confirm availability and make the appropriate arrangements. Because requirements can vary by state and individual agency, we recommend confirming the documentation requirements with the receiving organization before ordering.

 

What if I need a translation in a language not listed?

We translate over 75 languages. If your language isn’t listed on our services page, please contact us — we may still be able to assist.

 

Do you provide phone and video remote interpreting services?

Yes. Silver Bay Translations provides phone and video remote interpreting (VRI) services for legal, medical, business, and other professional settings.

 

Our remote interpreting services can support phone calls, virtual meetings, video conferences, consultations, appointments, and other remote communication needs. Services are available nationwide and can be arranged according to the language, setting, and scheduling requirements of your request.

 

We do not provide in-person or on-site interpreting services. All interpreting assignments are conducted remotely by phone or secure video connection, providing a convenient solution for clients who need professional language support without requiring an interpreter to be physically present.

 

How do I pay for my translation order?

We accept credit card payments through Wave and PayPal from all clients. Payment is required upfront before translation services begin.

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Can I revise my translation if there’s an error?

Yes — we provide a revision guarantee for any translation errors. Our goal is to ensure complete accuracy and client satisfaction.

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Do you have a privacy policy?

Yes — we take privacy and data security seriously. All client documents are handled with strict confidentiality. For full details on how we collect, use, and protect your information, please review our Privacy Policy here.
 

Why choose Silver Bay Translations?

• ✅ Certified and USCIS-compliant translations

• ✅ Accepted by government agencies, courts, schools, hospitals, and DMV/BMV

• ✅ 100% human translators — no AI or machine translation

• ✅ Fast turnaround: 24-48 hours for most documents

• ✅ Flat rates with no hidden fees

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