Introduction
If you are planning to submit documents to the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) in Singapore, you may wonder: “Can I translate my own document and use it for ICA?”
The short and simple answer is no. ICA does not accept self-translated documents. They only accept certified translations done by a professional translator.
Let’s understand everything in detail.
Can I Translate My Own Document for ICA?
Many people try to save money or time by translating their documents on their own. But for ICA, self-translation is not allowed.
ICA needs your documents to be translated by someone who is trained and qualified to do it.
For example, if your birth certificate is in Hindi, Tamil, Chinese, or any non-English language, and you are submitting it to ICA, you cannot just translate it yourself and submit. ICA will ask for a certified translation.
The reason is simple: ICA wants to make sure that the translation is correct, complete, and trustworthy. They accept only those translations that are done by certified professionals who follow strict rules.
What Are the Translation Rules from ICA?
If you are submitting any translated document to ICA, make sure it follows these rules:
1. The Translation Must Be Done by a Professional
ICA only accepts translations done by qualified, professional translators. That means the translator must know the language well and must be trained in translation.
2. The Translator Must Include Their Stamp, Signature, and a Declaration
The translation must have:
- The translator’s name
- Official stamp or seal
- Signature
- A short declaration that says the translation is true and correct
This shows ICA that a professional has done the work and is taking responsibility.
3. Translation Must Be in English or Malay
ICA accepts translations only in English or Malay. If your original document is in another language (like Hindi, Mandarin, Bengali, etc.), you must get it translated into one of these two languages.
4. The Full Document Must Be Translated
You cannot submit only part of the translation. ICA will reject it. The entire document must be translated – every word, name, date, and stamp must be included in the translated version.
Will ICA Accept a Translation Done in Another Country?
Yes, ICA sometimes accepts translations done in other countries, if the translation is certified and follows ICA’s rules.
But remember:
- The translator must still provide all details: name, signature, certification, and declaration.
- The translation must be into English or Malay.
- It must be 100% accurate and complete.
However, to stay safe, it is better to use a Singapore-based certified translator. Local translators know ICA’s exact requirements. They provide translations that are always accepted without delays or rejections.
What Happens If I Translate the Document Myself?
If you decide to translate your document yourself and submit it to ICA, here’s what can happen:
❌ ICA Can Reject Your Document
If ICA sees that your document is not translated by a certified translator, they will not accept it. This can cause serious delays in your application.
⏳ It Can Delay the Whole Process
Once your translation is rejected, ICA will ask you to submit a proper certified version. This means you will have to get it translated again, which can take extra time.
💸 You May Have to Spend More Time and Money
Doing it yourself might seem cheap at first, but if rejected, you will need to spend extra money to get a proper translation and may miss your deadline.
So, it’s always better to do it right the first time.
Conclusion
You cannot translate your own document and submit it to ICA. They need certified translations done by professional translators.
If your document is in any non-English or non-Malay language, you must:
- Get it translated by a professional
- Ensure it includes the translator’s certification, signature, and full details
- Make sure the document is fully translated — nothing should be missing
To avoid rejection and delay, it’s always better to use a trusted, ICA-approved certified translation service.
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