Question 1

What languages do you translate?

Accepted Answer

Our translation office translates all languages, in any combination.

Question 2

How can I send you my documents? How much cost a translation?

Accepted Answer

You can send your documents to our e-mail address info@spstranslation.com in order to receive a quote, in a few minutes and free of charge.

Question 3

How long will it take to translate my documents?

Accepted Answer

The time that will be required to translate your documents will depend on the type of project, the complexity and the languages required. If you need your documents translated urgently, just let us know the deadline.

Question 4

Can your certified translations be notarized?

Accepted Answer

Yes, notarization may be selected as an optional service for certified translations. In these cases, the translator’s certificate of accuracy is notarized to verify the identity of the individual who signed it. The notarization does not alter the translation’s content and is only necessary if specifically required by the receiving authority.

Question 5

Do I need to send you the original documents?

Accepted Answer

No. The original copy of your document is not necessary. We can use a scanned copy delivered to us via email. We only need the original document when you request us an apostille on it, so in that situation, we would request you to mail us the document.

Question 6

What’s the difference between a certified translation and a notarized translation?

Accepted Answer

A certified translation is a document translated by our professional translators with a signed certificate of accuracy. A notarized translation is an additional service that involves adding a notary's signature and seal to your document. If you're not sure what type of document you need, you can always contact us for more information.

Question 7

I have a certificate that I want translated and certified. Do you provide such service?

Accepted Answer

Yes. SPS Translation provides official certified translations for all types of documents.

Question 8

What is a “sworn translator”? Does SPS Translation have any available?

Accepted Answer

Sworn translators are translators who have been certified by the government of their country of residence and can directly stamp their translations as accurate to the original document. The system in the US and many other countries works in a different way so we use our certification or a notarization to achieve the equivalent standard, according to the destination entity.

Question 9

Do you provide assistance with apostille services?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we do. If an apostille is needed for a translated document, we can handle the process without requiring you to send any original documents. The usual turnaround time is approximately 5–7 working days, and express service may be available upon request.
If the apostille is needed for the original document, processing times will depend on the authority that issued it. In this situation, the original document must be mailed to our office. Please contact us ahead of time so we can coordinate the details.

Question 10

Are currency conversions included in certified translations?

Accepted Answer

Certified translations reproduce the original document exactly as it was issued. Monetary figures are translated as they appear and are not converted by default. Currency conversion is available for an additional charge upon request. When provided, conversions are clearly noted and calculated based on the official exchange rate in force on the date of the translation and are included strictly for reference purposes.

Question 11

Do you offer foreign credential assessments?

Accepted Answer

We do not conduct foreign credential or academic degree assessments. However, translations must typically be completed before an assessment can take place, and we provide professional translations that meet the standard requirements of credential assessment agencies. Our translations are prepared in line with common assessment guidelines and are widely accepted by credential assessments services for review.

Question 12

What is a certified translation?

Accepted Answer

A certified translation is a complete, word-for-word translation prepared for official purposes, including submission to agencies such as U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), as well as universities, colleges, state or federal agencies, and courts. It includes a signed certificate of accuracy issued on our company letterhead and provided in PDF format, bearing the signature of the translator.

Question 13

Are my documents shared with third parties?

Accepted Answer

No, your documents are never shared with third parties for marketing, resale, or any unrelated purposes. Documents are accessed only as needed to complete the translation and any associated services, and everyone involved in the process is bound by strict confidentiality obligations.

Question 14

Can your company enter into a non-disclosure agreement (NDA)?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We are able to enter into a non-disclosure agreement upon request. There are many corporate and institutional clients that require an NDA, and we can review and sign confidentiality agreements prior to starting any work.

Question 15

Do you accept documents by mail or in person?

Accepted Answer

In-person appointments are not necessary. Documents are generally submitted electronically through clear scans or photos. Original documents are mailed only when required for apostille processing of the original document. For standard and certified translations, sending physical original documents is not required.

Question 16

What determines the cost of a translation?

Accepted Answer

The cost of a translation depends on various factors, such as total word count, language combination, complexity of the document, formatting needs, and requested turnaround time. Optional services—including notarization, apostille processing, currency conversion, or express service—may also influence the final price. A quote is provided based on the complete scope of work before the translation process begins.

Question 17

Should I pay before you start translating?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Full payment must be received before any translation work starts. Once payment has been processed and a confirmation receipt is issued by our payment provider, we proceed with your order.

Question 18

What is your refund or cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Our refund and cancellation policy depends on the stage of the project. A cancellation may be permitted if work has not yet started. However, once the translation is underway or has been completed, refunds may be restricted or not available. Please consult our refund and cancellation policy.

Question 19

Do you offer translations intended for use outside the United States?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We prepare translations intended for use outside the United States. Documents submitted internationally may require an apostille or other forms of legalization, depending on the receiving authority’s requirements. It is the client’s responsibility to check the specific requirements of the country or institution where the document shall be presented. Upon request, we can help with apostille processing.

Question 20

Can you send physical copies to international addresses?

Accepted Answer

Yes. When printed copies are needed, we can ship them to international addresses using the delivery option selected at the time of ordering. Shipping methods and delivery timeframes vary depending on the destination and carrier.