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Document Translation Requirements in Australia

Official bodies in Australia generally require a certified translation of foreign-language documents, and many documents also need an apostille or legalization before they are translated. Below: who can translate, when an apostille is needed, and where the official rules are published.

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Australia requirements at a glance

Translation standardCertified translation
Who can translateNAATI-certified translator (if in Australia) or recognised professional translator (if overseas)
ApostilleRequired for foreign public documents where applicable
Accepted languagesEnglish
Responsible authorityDepartment of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) – Apostille
Important: Immigration requirements are federal. Translation rules may vary between government departments and private institutions.

Translations performed in Australia

If the translation is carried out within Australia, it must be completed by a translator accredited by the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI). Only NAATI-certified translations are accepted for most official purposes, including immigration applications.

Translations performed outside Australia

If the translation is completed outside Australia, it does not need to be NAATI-certified. The translation must include:
  • The translator’s full name
  • Signature
  • Contact details
  • Qualifications and language competence
    • The original foreign-language document must be submitted together with the English translation.

    How does Australia treat documents from abroad?

    Foreign public documents may require an apostille issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) or the competent authority in the country of origin.

    Legal basis

    Translation requirements for immigration matters are set by the Department of Home Affairs. NAATI accreditation governs translators operating within Australia.

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    Submitting foreign documents in Australia?

    Authorities in Australia accept certified English translations with a signed Certificate of Accuracy. We translate from 60+ languages with delivery in 24–48 hours.

    Browse languages we translate See document types we certify

    Sending U.S. documents to Australia?

    U.S.-issued documents usually need an apostille before they can be used in Australia — and the apostille should be obtained before the translation, so the certificate itself gets translated too. We offer e-apostille processing as an add-on to any order.

    How apostilles work Order translation with e-apostille

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    Australia translation requirements — FAQ

    What type of translation does Australia require?

    Australia follows the certified translation standard for official documents. Translations should be completed by: naati-certified translator (if in australia) or recognised professional translator (if overseas).

    Is an apostille required for foreign documents in Australia?

    Required for foreign public documents where applicable

    What languages do Australian authorities accept?

    Official authorities in Australia accept documents in: English. Documents in any other language need a certified translation before submission.

    Can CertTranslate help with documents for Australia?

    Yes. We provide certified translations into English with a signed Certificate of Accuracy — the format accepted by immigration authorities, universities, and credential evaluators in Australia.

    Requirements in related countries

    Neighbors and countries with a similar translation standard.

    ChinaIndonesiaIndiaMalaysiaNew ZealandSingaporeView all countries on the map

    Sources

    Information verified against official sources. Last verified June 2026.

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