When might a passport translation be requested?
A translation of an identity document may be requested for study, work, family matters or various official procedures abroad. For foreign passports to be used in Türkiye, the target language and notarization may also come up. The name of the procedure alone does not explain the scope of the translation. Check the application list to see whether the identity page, an additional observations page or particular entries are required.
Preparing an identity document correctly also means keeping it consistent with the other documents in the application file. If your name is spelt differently on your diploma, civil registry document, marriage record and application form, explain this at the initial review stage. The translator cannot change any identity information at their own discretion; the source record and the institution’s requirement must be considered together.
Why does the spelling of names need special care?
On documents that use more than one alphabet, the spelling of first names and surnames can vary. The Latin-script fields in the passport, the local spelling on the document and the name used on the application form should be compared. Diacritics, compound surnames and the order of names also matter. The holder’s preferred spelling cannot automatically replace the record on the official document.
Give information about related documents especially in cases of a surname change after marriage, multiple citizenships, or old and new passports being used together. This explanation allows document consistency to be assessed in the translation; correcting identity records, however, is outside the translation service and is handled with the relevant authorities.
How should the photo or scan be prepared?
- Photograph the document on a flat surface with all four edges visible.
- There should be no glare, reflections or shadows from a curled page.
- Numbers, dates and the machine-readable zone at the bottom should be clearly visible.
- If both sides of the identity card are required, include both.
- If several documents are in one file, state which document is to be translated.
The copy you send for the initial assessment contains personal data. Share only the document needed for the procedure; do not add unnecessary bank transactions or unrelated family documents. If you are thinking of blacking out a field, first ask which information is essential for the translation and certification. It cannot be assumed that a copy with missing information can be used for every application.
Pre-application comparison table
| Check | What should you compare? |
|---|---|
| Name and surname | Passport, other documents and the application form |
| Document number | Letters and digits that look alike |
| Date | Dates of birth, issue and expiry |
| Scope | Required sides, pages and additional entries |
| Certification | Translator’s signature, notary or other institutional requirement |
What information should you send for the quote and delivery?
Share the source language, target language, country of use, receiving institution and deadline. If you are applying with a new passport rather than the old one, make sure you send the correct document. Also state the number of copies required and whether you prefer digital or physical delivery. Once Universe Tercüme sees the scope of the document, the translation and, if needed, the certification process can be assessed together.
The validity of the document and the date the translation is prepared are separate matters. The receiving institution decides which procedures an expired identity document can be used for. Having it translated does not extend the document’s validity or guarantee its acceptance. Asking the application office this question before ordering the translation can save unnecessary costs.
Frequently asked questions
Are all pages of the passport translated?
The scope is set according to the pages the receiving institution asks for. Ask in writing whether only the identity page or other entries are needed as well.
Is a photo taken on my phone enough?
A legible photo helps with the initial assessment. At the official procedure or certification stage, a better scan or the physical document may be requested.
My name is spelt differently on my other documents. What should I do?
Add the difference and the related documents to your request. Without changing the source record, the spelling required by the receiving institution and the consistency of the documents should be assessed.
Does a passport translation include notarization?
Notarization is not assumed automatically. Share the institution’s requirement and we will clarify together which translation and certification items the quote covers.
This guide is for general information. Confirm the document and certification requirements for your application with the relevant institution, and include the current list of requirements in your translation request.