← Guides

How to translate an official letter accurately

For everyday understanding, an accurate translation helps you know what an organisation wants. For some purposes — courts, immigration or official registration — authorities may require a certified translation by a qualified translator.

What must never change

1. Names of people and organisations
2. Reference, case, account and invoice numbers
3. Amounts and currencies
4. Dates — and their format (3/4 can mean 3 April or 4 March)
5. Addresses, email addresses and phone numbers

Watch out for official words

Official letters use terms with a specific meaning, such as “notice”, “assessment”, “arrears” or “appeal”. A good translation explains these instead of replacing them with a vague word.

Personal understanding vs. certified translation

HandleTheLetter translations help you understand your correspondence. They are not certified translations. If an authority asks for a certified or sworn translation, use a qualified professional translator.

HandleTheLetter provides document assistance, not legal advice. Always check important documents carefully.