Certified translation
A certified translation confirms that the visible content of a document has been translated completely and professionally.
approx. CHF 60-120 per page
Swiss guide for official documents
Certified translation in Switzerland
A practical guide for authorities, courts, universities, migration offices, companies and international documents: which form is needed, what it may cost and which providers are relevant.
24-72 htypical express range for simple certificates
CHF 60+frequent starting price per page
3 formscertified, notarized, Apostille
Official translations
Certified, notarized or with Apostille?
The terms are often mixed up. Official acceptance depends on what is being confirmed and on which document.
Notarized translation
A notarization usually confirms a signature, copy or statement connected with the translation process.
approx. CHF 120-250+ per document
Translation with Apostille
An Apostille confirms the authenticity of a public document or a previous official or notarial certification. The sequence matters.
approx. CHF 150-350+ depending on canton
Costs
How much does a certified translation cost?
Costs depend on language, length, readability, layout, deadline, notarization, Apostille and shipping.
ServiceScopeRangeNote
Birth or marriage certificate1 pageCHF 60-120Costs depend on language, length, readability, layout, deadline, notarization, Apostille and shipping.
Diploma with transcript2-4 pagesCHF 160-420Costs depend on language, length, readability, layout, deadline, notarization, Apostille and shipping.
Commercial register extract2-5 pagesCHF 180-550Costs depend on language, length, readability, layout, deadline, notarization, Apostille and shipping.
Notary or Apostilleper procedureCHF 80-350+Costs depend on language, length, readability, layout, deadline, notarization, Apostille and shipping.
Authorities
What do authorities require?
The right form is determined by the institution that must accept the document.
Civil registry offices
They often check names, dates, marginal notes, signatures, seals and the exact required form.
Migration offices
They often ask for formally certified or notarized translations for identity and family documents.
Universities
Universities may define their own rules for language, copy format, certification and submission.
Embassies
Depending on the country, Apostille, legalization or notarization may be required.
Apostille
Apostille for the original or the translation?
An Apostille on the original confirms the original public document. An Apostille for the translation usually confirms a signature, statement or notarial certification in the translation chain.
Check the required form before ordering
Always ask the receiving authority for the exact wording before ordering a translation.
Guides
Detailed guides
The detailed German pages cover cantons, common documents, city pages and legal differences. This English page is the main overview.
Documents
Birth certificates, marriage certificates, diplomas, criminal record extracts and company documents.
Open guidesCantons
Cantonal requirements, Apostille, notary steps and special rules such as the Bern translator form.
View cantonsCities
Local guidance for Zurich, Bern, Basel, Geneva, Lausanne, Lucerne and other Swiss cities.
View citiesComparisons
Differences between certified translation, notarization, certified copy and Apostille.
Compare formsProvider ranking
Swiss providers
The ranking considers experience with Swiss documents, price clarity, certification workflows and suitability for private and business cases.
#1
Best overall choice
Translation Agency UniTranslate
Translation Agency UniTranslate covers certified translations, notarized translations and Apostille cases for Swiss documents.
FocusCertified translations, notarized translations, Apostille workflows
94/100transparent on requeststrong for Swiss document cases
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Is a certified translation the same as a notarized translation?
No. A certified translation concerns the translation. Notarization usually concerns a signature, copy or declaration.
Do I always need an Apostille?
No. It is needed only when the receiving authority requires it for international use.
Can I send a photo?
Yes, if it is complete and readable. For final use, an original or certified copy may still be required.