When preparing to study abroad, the diplomas and transcripts you submit to a local school must be translated into the local language and notarized to be accepted as official documents. Certified translation is the notary's official confirmation that a translation matches the original — and unlike a plain translation, it carries the legal effect required by government offices, universities, and embassies. Apostille Korea handles issuance through certified translation and apostille remotely, in one stop.
What is certified translation?
Certified translation is the procedure by which a notary confirms that an attached translation does not differ in content from the original. The translator or commissioner signs an affidavit stating the translation matches the original, and the notary certifies that affidavit. Documents such as diplomas and transcripts must be translated into the destination's language and given public credibility this way to take official effect — which is why certified translation is used for documents submitted to government offices, embassies, and overseas educational institutions.
When do you need it?
- Submitting diplomas/transcripts for overseas university or graduate admission
- Certified translation of enrollment/transcript for a study (student) visa
- Local-language certified translation of academic/career documents for overseas employment
- Certified translation of family relation/basic certificates for international marriage
- Local-language certified translation of a criminal record for overseas submission
- Certified translation of various public and private documents for overseas bodies
Key documents
| Document | Main receiving body |
|---|---|
| Diploma | Overseas universities and graduate schools |
| Transcript | Overseas universities and scholarship foundations |
| Enrollment certificate | Overseas schools (student visa) |
| Career certificate | Overseas employers |
| Family relation / basic certificate | Overseas immigration and registry bodies |
The process, step by step
- Issue the original documentObtain accurate originals from the school or relevant body.
- Professional translationA qualified professional translator translates accurately into the local language.
- Certified translationA notary office certifies that the translation matches the original.
- Apostille or embassy legalization (if required)Add an apostille for a member destination, or embassy legalization for a non-member.
- SubmissionSubmit the completed documents to the overseas institution.
How to apply with Apostille Korea
Apostille Korea handles issuance support, professional translation, certified translation, and certification in one stop, entirely online, with in-house translators.
Frequently asked questions
What is certified translation?
It is the notary's official confirmation that a translation matches the original, giving the translated document legal effect for submission abroad.
Why is it needed for study documents?
Foreign schools do not accept Korean-language documents directly; diplomas and transcripts must be translated and notarized to take official effect abroad.
Which documents can be certified-translated?
Diplomas, transcripts, enrollment and career certificates, family relation and basic certificates, criminal records, and other documents required overseas.
Do I need an apostille too?
It depends on the destination — apostille for a Hague member, embassy legalization for a non-member. We advise the route.
How long does it take?
It varies by document and route, but typically about 5 to 15 business days. Contact us for urgent handling.
Why Apostille Korea
- Specialist team — apostille, certified translation, and embassy legalization handled directly by experts.
- One-stop service — from issuance support to the finished certification, resolved together.
- Fully remote — apply online from anywhere and receive your documents — no in-person visit.
- Fast handling — urgent cases processed quickly with real-time status updates.
- Accurate guidance — tailored advice analyzing each country's and document's requirements.