How to get documents officially translated in Hungary

These translations must meet strict standards to be legally recognized. The primary entity responsible for certified translations is the Hungarian Office for Translation and Attestation Ltd. (OFFI), now part of the MKIFK Hungarian Gazette Publishing and Legal Translation Centre Ltd. following a merger on October 16, 2024.

What Makes a Translation "Official"?

A certified translation in Hungary is a precise, word-for-word translation of the original document, verified for accuracy and authenticity. Key characteristics include:

• Paper-Based Certified Translations: The translation is printed on security paper with a unique identifier, physically attached to the original document (or a certified copy) in an inseparable manner.

• E-Certified Translations: These are electronic translations provided with an electronic signature, delivered in formats like .es3 or a folder. E-certified translations are suitable only if the receiving institution accepts electronic documents.

• Legal Authority: Unless otherwise stipulated by law, only OFFI/MKIFK is authorized to produce certified translations in Hungary.

Non-certified translations, also called technical or specialized translations, are suitable for informal purposes but are not accepted for official proceedings.

Step-by-Step Process for Obtaining Official Translations

Step 1: Determine the Type of Translation Needed

Before ordering a translation, confirm whether a certified translation is required. Check with the institution (e.g., immigration office, university, or court) to verify:

• If a certified translation from OFFI/MKIFK is mandatory.

• Whether an e-certified translation is acceptable.

• The target language (e.g., Hungarian to English, English to Hungarian, or another language pair).

For example, documents like birth certificates, marriage certificates, diplomas, or criminal records typically require certified translations for official use.

Step 2: Choose the Translation Provider

Option 1: Hungarian Office for Translation and Attestation (OFFI/MKIFK)

OFFI, now operating under MKIFK, is the go-to provider for certified translations in Hungary. Here’s why:

• Exclusivity: OFFI/MKIFK has a legal monopoly on certified translations unless otherwise specified by law.

• Quality Assurance: Translations undergo rigorous checks by revisers and proofreaders, adhering to ISO 17100 standards.

• Wide Range of Documents: OFFI translates certificates (birth, marriage, death), identity documents, diplomas, criminal records, and corporate documents like company register extracts.

• Online Services: The OFFI client portal allows users to upload documents, receive price quotes, submit orders, and download e-certified translations.

Contact Details:

• Website: www.offi.hu

• Customer Service: Available in Budapest and other locations; check the website for office hours.

• Phone: Varies by location; see the OFFI website for details.

Note: For company register extracts, other qualified translators with translator-reviser qualifications may provide translations at potentially lower costs, but these are not always certified.

Option 2: Consular Authentication (For Use Abroad)

If applying for Hungarian citizenship or other procedures abroad, some Hungarian consulates can authenticate translations. For example:

• The Consulate General of Hungary in Manchester authenticates English-to-Hungarian or Hungarian-to-English translations for use in Hungary, provided they are complete and accurate.

• Consulates may charge a fee (e.g., $300–$350 for certifying multiple documents) and may not translate documents themselves.

Contact the relevant Hungarian consulate to confirm their services and requirements. Note that consulates may recommend OFFI/MKIFK for certified translations.

Option 3: Private Translation Agencies (Limited Use)

Private agencies like HungarianTranslation.com, PoliLingua, or Languex offer certified translations, particularly for Hungarian-to-English translations for use outside Hungary (e.g., USCIS in the U.S.). However:

• These translations may not be accepted by Hungarian authorities unless authenticated by a consulate or OFFI/MKIFK.

• They are often more cost-effective for international use, with prices ranging from $24.50–$39 per page.

For documents used in Hungary, always confirm with the receiving institution whether private agency translations are acceptable.

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

To ensure a smooth translation process:

• Provide Clear Copies: For paper-based translations, submit the original document or a certified copy. For e-certified translations, upload high-resolution scans or photos with all four corners visible.

• Specify Language Pair: Clearly indicate the source and target languages (e.g., Hungarian to English).

• Include Additional Information: For pre-1895 records (e.g., birth or marriage certificates), provide the religious affiliation, as churches maintained records before state registration began.

• Check for Special Requirements: Some documents, like those requiring name verification, may delay delivery.

Step 4: Submit Your Order

Through OFFI/MKIFK

• Online: Use the OFFI client portal to upload documents, receive a price quote, and place your order. Payment can be made online, and e-certified translations are delivered electronically.

• In-Person: Visit an OFFI customer service office (e.g., in Budapest). Arrive at least one hour before closing, as serial number issuance stops 45 minutes prior. Administration takes about 10–30 minutes, depending on complexity.

• By Post: Send documents to OFFI with a cover letter including your contact details and a copy of your ID (e.g., passport).

Through a Consulate

• Submit translations prepared by yourself or a translator to the consulate, along with the original document or a copy. Include proof of ID and a cover letter if applying by post.

• Be aware that consulates may refuse translations requiring specialized terminology.

Through a Private Agency

• Upload documents via the agency’s online portal, select the language pair, and choose additional options (e.g., notarization). Payment is typically made via credit/debit card, PayPal, or other secure methods.

Step 5: Receive Your Translation

• OFFI/MKIFK:

  • Paper-based translations are collected in-person or mailed, attached to the original document.

  • E-certified translations are downloaded via the client portal.

  • Turnaround times vary; standard orders may take a few days, while urgent requests can be expedited for an additional fee.

• Consulates: Authenticated translations are returned in-person or by post, depending on the submission method.

• Private Agencies: Translations are typically delivered as PDFs via email, often within 3–8 business days, depending on document length.

Step 6: Verify Acceptance

Before submitting the translated document to the intended institution:

• Confirm that the translation meets all requirements (e.g., certified vs. e-certified, correct format).

• Ensure any required certifications (e.g., notarization) are included.

• If used abroad, check if additional authentication (e.g., apostille) is needed.

Costs and Turnaround Times

OFFI/MKIFK

• Pricing: Varies by document type and language pair. Some documents (e.g., birth certificates) have fixed prices, while others are based on character count. Reduced rates may apply for company register extracts in specific language pairs (e.g., English to Hungarian).

• Turnaround: Standard processing takes a few days, but expedited options are available. Complex cases (e.g., name verification) may delay delivery.

• Payment: Online payments are accepted for e-certified translations; in-person offices may require card payments (some are cashless).

Consulates

• Pricing: Authentication fees vary (e.g., $300–$350 for multiple documents). Contact the consulate for details.

• Turnaround: Depends on the consulate’s workload; expect a few days to a week.

Private Agencies

• Pricing: Typically $24.50–$39 per page (up to 250 words). Notarization or expedited delivery may incur additional fees.

• Turnaround: 3–5 days for 1–3 pages; 8 days for 4–10 pages. Rush services can deliver within 24 hours for an extra fee.

Special Considerations

Historical Documents

For records before 1895, indicate the religious affiliation, as churches maintained these records. If the document is handwritten or in an old script, confirm with the translator whether it’s legible, as some agencies cannot guarantee full readability.

Dialects and Cultural Nuances

Hungarian has dialects (e.g., Szekler, Tschango), but differences are mainly phonetic and rarely affect written translations. Native translators ensure cultural accuracy, especially for marketing or legal documents.

International Use

For translations used outside Hungary (e.g., for USCIS), private agencies or consulate-authenticated translations may suffice. Always verify the receiving institution’s requirements.

Language Requirements for Citizenship

If applying for Hungarian citizenship, note that some consulates require basic Hungarian language proficiency. Check with the consulate before investing in translations.

Tips for a Smooth Process

• Plan Ahead: Allow extra time for complex documents or urgent needs.

• Double-Check Requirements: Contact the receiving institution to confirm translation specifications.

• Use the OFFI Portal: For convenience, leverage OFFI’s online services to save time and avoid in-person visits.

• Keep Copies: Retain copies of all documents and translations for your records.

• Verify Translator Credentials: If using a private agency, ensure translators are certified and experienced in the relevant field (e.g., legal, medical).

Conclusion

Obtaining officially translated documents in Hungary requires careful planning and adherence to legal standards. The Hungarian Office for Translation and Attestation (OFFI), now MKIFK, is the primary provider for certified translations, offering both paper-based and e-certified options. Consulates and private agencies can be viable alternatives for specific cases, particularly for international use. By understanding the requirements, preparing documents thoroughly, and choosing the right provider, you can navigate the process efficiently and ensure your translations are accepted by the relevant authorities.

For more information or to start your translation, visit www.offi.hu or contact your local Hungarian consulate. If using a private agency, compare pricing and turnaround times to find the best fit for your needs.