What is the Official Document Recognition Map?

An interactive map showing each country's official requirements for recognising foreign documents, including when certified translations, apostilles, or legalisation are needed.

What is an apostille?

An apostille is a certificate that authenticates the origin of a public document for use in another country that is part of the Hague Apostille Convention.

When do I need a certified translation?

A certified translation is typically required when submitting foreign language documents to government agencies, courts, or official institutions. Requirements vary by country - use the map to check specific country requirements.

What's the difference between legalisation and an apostille?

Apostille is used between countries that are part of the Hague Convention (simplified process), while legalisation is the traditional process used between countries not part of the convention, often requiring multiple steps through foreign ministries and embassies.

Translation Requirements for Australia

Australia 🇦🇺

Requirement: Certified

Requirements summary

Apostille required	Required for foreign public documents where applicable
Translation type required	Certified translation
Who can translate	NAATI-certified translator (if in Australia) or recognised professional translator (if overseas)
Official translator registry	National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI)
Accepted languages	English
Legalisation authority	Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) – Apostille
Official source	Department of Home Affairs – Translating and Interpreting Requirements

Important: Immigration requirements are federal. Translation rules may vary between government departments and private institutions.

Find a NAATI-certified translator

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.

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.

Official Document Recognition Map - Translation, Apostille & Legalisation Rules by Country

Legalisation and translation requirements in Australia