A birth certificate is an important record that documents the birth of a child. Legally, it is a certified copy of an entry from the official register of births. In almost every country, a person’s birth certificate is a crucial proof of his or her identity that is required in applications for citizenship, driver’s license, social welfare benefits, bank accounts, etc. Therefore, it is recommended that only certified translators are appointed to translate birth certificates. In the United States, all you need is that the translator certifies that the translation is an accurate translation from the original and his/her signature is notarized by a Public Notary.

A birth certificate typically contains the child’s full name, date of birth, sex, place of birth, the full name(s) of his or her parent(s), and their address and occupations at the time of registration. Other relevant official details may include the name of the hospital where the child was born, the name and signature of the attending doctor, and the name and address of the official register of births. In many countries, birth certificates are issued in “full” and “abstract” styles. The former is an exact copy of the original birth record, while the latter contains limited information about the child’s birth. For most legal purposes, “full” certificates are required. However, both styles of birth certificate should be translated clearly, precisely and free of error.

The official translation including the notary seal should be submitted with an original birth certificate to be recognized as legal by the National Visa Center, Social Security office, schools and universities.