Frequently asked questions
Prices depend on the document, the language pair and the destination country, so every quote is prepared individually and free of charge.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a certified translation or apostille cost?
Prices vary with the type of document, the number of pages, the languages and the destination country. Send us your documents for a free, individual quote.
Do I need to come to an office?
No. Most work starts with scans sent by email or through our form. Originals, when needed, can be sent and returned by courier anywhere in Jamaica.
Do you serve my parish?
Yes. We work with clients in all fourteen parishes, from Kingston and St. Andrew to Westmoreland and St. Thomas, and with Jamaicans living abroad.
Which languages do you translate?
More than twenty, including Spanish, French, Portuguese, German, Chinese, Haitian Creole and Jamaican Patois. Ask us if your language is not listed.
Can you handle the whole process for me?
Yes. We can retrieve a document, translate it, have it certified and apostilled or legalized, and deliver it to you or directly to the receiving authority.
Certified translation
What makes a translation 'certified'?
It includes a signed certificate of accuracy with the translator's or agency's details. Some countries also require a sworn translator's seal or a notary, which we can provide.
Can you translate a scan or a photo?
Yes. For most purposes a clear scan is enough. If the authority needs the translation bound to the original, we will tell you before we start.
How long does it take?
Standard documents are usually ready in two to four business days. Urgent service is available on request.
Apostille
Which countries accept an apostille?
All countries that are party to the Hague Apostille Convention, which includes most of Europe, the Americas and many countries in Asia and Africa. For other countries you need embassy legalization instead.
Do I need to translate the document first?
It depends on the destination. Often the original is apostilled and then translated, sometimes the translation is apostilled as well. We confirm the right order for your case.
Can you apostille documents from other countries?
An apostille is always issued by the country that issued the document. Through our international offices we can obtain apostilles in many other countries for you.
Embassy and consulate legalization
Apostille or legalization: which do I need?
If the destination country is a member of the Apostille Convention, an apostille is enough. Otherwise you need consular legalization. Tell us the country and we will confirm.
Is the embassy in Jamaica?
Many countries have an embassy or consulate in Kingston. For others, legalization is handled by their mission accredited to Jamaica in another country, which we arrange through our network.
Certified true copies
Who certifies the copy?
A notary public or a Justice of the Peace, depending on what the receiving authority accepts. For use abroad a notary is usually preferred because the signature can then be apostilled.
Do you need my original document?
Yes, the certifier must see the original. We will arrange a convenient way to present it and return it to you.
Power of attorney
Can I sign a power of attorney while living abroad?
Yes. You sign before a notary where you live, the document is apostilled or legalized there, and we take care of translation and any steps in Jamaica.
Do you draft the power of attorney?
We prepare the document based on the receiving authority's template or your attorney's instructions. For legal advice on its content we refer you to an attorney-at-law.
Document retrieval
I live abroad. Can you get my Jamaican birth certificate?
Yes. Send us your details and a copy of your ID. We obtain the certificate and can translate and apostille it before shipping it to you.
How long does retrieval take?
It depends on the issuing office. We give you a realistic timeline with your quote and keep you informed.
Interpreting
How far in advance should I book?
A week ahead is ideal. For less common languages or conferences, book as early as possible. We also try to help with short-notice requests.
Do you provide interpreting equipment?
For simultaneous interpreting we can arrange booths and receivers as part of the quote.
Tell us what you need
Send your documents for a free, no-obligation quote. We usually reply within one business day.