Translation of Documents

A13.5 Translations 

a. Applicants must provide a certified translation for all documents not written in English which are provided in support of an application for a residence class visa.
b. Applicants must provide a certified translation for all police certificates and medical certificates not written in English which are provided in support of an application for a temporary entry class visa.
c. If requested by an immigration officer, applicants must provide a certified translation for any other documents not written in English and provided in support of an application for a temporary entry class visa.
d . Translations must:

• not be prepared by an applicant, any member of their family or an immigration adviser assisting with the application; and  
• be accompanied by the original documents or certified copies; and  
• be paid for by the applicant; and  
• be certified as a correct translation made by a person familiar with both languages and competent in translation work; and  
• bear the stamp or signature of the translator or translation business; and  
• if applicable, be on the official letterhead of the translation business.

 
e . Translations may be prepared by:

• the Translation Service of the Department of Internal Affairs, or
• reputable people within the community who are known to translate documents accurately, with the exception of those listed in A13.5(d)(i) or
• embassies or high commissions (if the translation is endorsed with the appropriate embassy or high commission seal), or
• any other private or official translation business.

f . An immigration officer may request a translation:

• of the complete document where the translation is of a selected part(s) of the document, and/or
• by a different (specified) translation service where they are not satisfied by the initial translation. 
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Note:
If a translation by a different (specified) translation service is requested the reason(s) behind the request must be clearly documented and conveyed to the applicant by INZ.