How long does it take and how much does it cost to translate records for a citizenship application?
This article will address two of the key points when you require a document to be translated: waiting periods and cost. Having vital records translated is a fundamental part of the process when applying for Italian citizenship; given that it is a mandatory requirement to have your vital records translated into Italian. With this considered, knowing about the translation process will help you prepare for your citizenship application.
Timeline and cost factors: What you should know about translating records for a citizenship application?
Obtaining Italian citizenship through descent, marriage or residency is a life-changing opportunity. What does this journey entail? Firstly, you should prepare for some bureaucracy, as some of your records and legal documents will certainly need to be translated. You might wonder about the timeline and overall cost of the translations, and while answers to these questions are determined by each specific case, there are a couple of common factors that you can expect.
Translation requirements
If you apply for citizenship through an Italian consulate in the U.S., then your vital records must be translated from English (or the language they are in) into Italian. In general, exception to this rule relates to naturalization records regarding the ancestor through whom you are seeking citizenship.
Italian Consulates expect the language and meaning of records to translate and appear exactly as it does in its original format. It is for this reason why it is so important to use professional translators: to ensure quality and accuracy. Any errors or discrepancies in the document delay your application or result in rejection.
Some consulates outside the U.S. may even require that translations be certified by a professional translator before you submit your application. This is also true regarding vital records issued by the country where the consulate is situated.
Vital records that have been issued by any EU member state outside of Italy do not need to be translated, provided that they are issued in a multilingual format.
The timeline
The complexity of the documents plays a crucial role. Straightforward documents, such as birth certificates, can be translated relatively quickly. On the other hand, more intricate documents, such as legal contracts or medical records, may take longer due to the technical terminology they contain. The specific language involved can impact on the translation time. You should also consider that some records may take more time to obtain; therefore, delaying the translation or apostille process. Larger volumes of documents naturally require more time. With a citizenship application taking an average of 24 months, it is advisable to start the translation process well in advance of your citizenship application deadline to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.
What informs translation costs
Just as the complexity of the translation impacts on the timeline; it also has an influence on the cost. More intricate documents, such as divorce decrees, often require specialized translators, and are priced higher because of this. Other documents, such as birth certificates, are usually more straightforward and will cost less than 50 USD to translate.
Some countries require certified translations for official documents. This certification process can also incur extra costs. As a general guideline, the cost of translating records for a citizenship application can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars.
Choosing the right translation service
When seeking a translation service for your citizenship application, it is crucial to prioritize quality and accuracy over cost alone. Opt for a reputable service with experienced translators who are proficient in both the source and target languages. Certification and credentials of the translation service should also be considered; especially if your application requires certified translations. Additionally, check for customer reviews and references to ensure a positive experience.
The time and cost of translating records for a citizenship application can vary based on a multitude of factors: planning ahead, choosing a reputable translation service, and understanding the specific requirements of your application can help streamline the process and ensure a successful citizenship journey. Whether you are aiming to become a citizen through marriage, descent, or naturalization, accurate and timely translations are integral to the success of your application.
Fees determined by the government
These fees are not for translations per se, but should be taken into consideration when applying to Italian citizenship by descent, marriage or residency.
In Italy, the “marca da bollo” is a stamp duty that is often required for various legal and administrative documents. It will be needed in the case of an application for citizenship by marriage, for instance. You can purchase the “marca da bollo” at authorized locations in Italy, such as post offices, tobacco shops, and some banks. It is available in different denominations to cover various amounts. For an application for citizenship by marriage or descent, the cost is €16.
When applying at an Italian consulate for your citizenship, the processing fee is €300, which typically includes the certification of local document translations. This fee is payable in USD to the consulate, with the exact amount subject to the quarterly exchange rate.
If you choose to apply directly in Italy, the processing fee is €16. This fee is paid using a “marca da bollo” mentioned above.
This article has detailed the time it takes to translate vital records, as well as outlined the cost involved. It has also addressed other important factors you need to consider in order to avoid the risk of having discrepancies in your translated records, and the importance of choosing a translation service that will ensure all translation requirements are met.
Working with us
At Italian Citizenship Translators, we play a central role by translating essential documents accurately, and issue certified translations for your Italian citizenship case. We provide guidance every step of the way, and support you until you achieve your goal of securing your new Italian citizenship. To talk to our team of experts and start the process today, fill out this contact form.