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My documents are not in English or Welsh

Why a complete verifiable translation may be required and why translation standards are route-specific.

Resource type
Problem-solving guide
Last reviewed
26 July 2026
Official sources
1
Platform role
Information only
General information, not a personal recommendation

This page identifies the public process and questions to check. It cannot confirm a deadline, preserve immigration status or determine the correct remedy for an individual case.

01

Start here

Four immediate checks

  1. 1

    Check the route’s document guidance

  2. 2

    Translate the complete document, not selected lines

  3. 3

    Ensure the translation includes required certification details

  4. 4

    Keep both original and translated versions

Keep control of the facts

Build a reliable record

Keep the complete decision, application, status record, correspondence and dates together. Use the current official page rather than screenshots or social-media summaries.

Avoid preventable harm

Important risks

  • Informal translations may not be accepted
  • Names and dates must remain consistent
  • A translation does not cure a weak underlying document

Official starting point

Open the current government process

Personal circumstances?

Know when a guide is no longer enough

Eligibility assessments, evidence reviews, application preparation and representation should be handled by a suitably regulated professional.

Verify a regulated professional