How to Translate a Birth Certificate for an Australian Visa Application

A birth certificate is one of the most common documents requested for Australian visa applications. If yours is not in English, it needs an English translation before you submit it. A mistake or missing detail can lead to delays or a request for more documents, so it is worth getting right the first time. This guide walks you through it.

Why does a birth certificate need translating?

The Department of Home Affairs requires documents that are not in English to be translated by an appropriately qualified translator. For most applicants, that means a NAATI certified translator. The translation lets the case officer read the document and confirm details such as your name, date of birth and your parents' names.

If you are not sure which translators are acceptable for your situation, check the instructions for your visa on the Home Affairs website or ask your migration agent. If you want to know more about the standard, read our guide to what a NAATI certified translation is.

Step 1: Check which birth certificate you need

Some countries issue more than one version of a birth certificate, such as a short extract and a full certificate that shows both parents' details. Some applications ask for the full version. Check the document checklist for your visa, and use the version it asks for.

Step 2: Prepare a clear scan

Scan or photograph the whole document so that every word, stamp and signature is readable.

• Include the back of the page if it has stamps, notes or registration details
• Make sure no corners or edges are cut off
• Use good lighting, and avoid shadows and blur
• Save the file as a PDF or JPG

Step 3: Make sure everything is translated

A certified translation should be a complete rendering of the original. That includes more than the main text. Ask that the translation also covers:

• Stamps, seals and the name of the issuing authority
• Handwritten notes, corrections and annotations
• Registration numbers, dates of issue and signatures
• Any text on the back of the page

Step 4: Get your names and dates right

Most delays come from small mismatches.

• Names. Your name must match the spelling in your passport. Tell the translator exactly how it is written there, because names written in other alphabets can be spelled in more than one way in English.
• Dates. Some countries use a calendar other than the Gregorian calendar. Ask the translator how the dates will be shown, so the case officer can read them without confusion.
• Parents' names. Check these as well, since they are often compared against other documents in your application.

Step 5: Order from a NAATI certified translator

When you order, tell the translator the document is for an Australian visa application, and say which language it is in. Your translation should include the translator's NAATI stamp, their signature, the date and a statement that the translation is true and accurate. A copy of your original document should be attached to it.

Step 6: Check the translation before you submit it

When you receive it, read it carefully:

• Names, dates and places match your passport and your other documents
• The NAATI stamp and the translator's details are clear and readable
• Nothing from the original is missing

If you find a mistake, tell the translator straight away so it can be corrected before you upload anything.

Step 7: Upload the original and the translation together

When you lodge your application, upload the scan of the original birth certificate together with the translation. Name each file clearly, for example "Birth certificate - original" and "Birth certificate - English translation", so they are easy to match.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Translating it yourself or asking a friend. Official applications generally require a qualified, independent translator.
• Leaving out stamps or the back of the page. The translation must cover them if they contain information.
• Uploading only the translation. Include a copy of the original as well.
• Using a different name spelling. It should match your passport.
• Leaving it to the last minute. Allow time for corrections.

Ready to order?

If you need your birth certificate translated for an Australian application, you can check prices and order online. If you would like to know more about how the process works, read our step-by-step guide to ordering a certified translation online or contact us.