Document translation for everyday life in the UK

HSBC, Lloyds, Barclays, Monzo, Starling, and other banks may request a certified translation of identity or address documents if they are not in English. Most commonly this is a birth certificate (as proof of identity), a statement from an overseas bank, or a certificate of residence.

NHS rules do not formally require identity documents to register with a GP practice. In practice, however, some practices ask for proof of identity, and if it is not in English, a certified translation may be requested. Most commonly a passport or birth certificate.

If you are exchanging an overseas driving licence for a UK licence through DVLA, a certified translation is required if the licence is not in English and was issued by a country not on the list of designated countries. Russia, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan are not on that list, so translation is compulsory. Application through form D1 at gov.uk/exchange-foreign-driving-licence.

A landlord is required to carry out a right-to-rent check. Documents evidencing the right to reside in the UK may require translation if not in English. Overseas bank statements produced to demonstrate financial means also need to be translated.

Local authorities and individual schools may request a child's birth certificate on registration. If the document is not in English, a certified translation is required. For children with special educational needs, medical certificates in translation may also be needed.

If you have already been admitted and are submitting documents to the admissions office (not through UCAS, but after acceptance), the university may request certified translations of originals. This differs from the application stage — here the institution is verifying authenticity and that your qualifications match those stated.