How can I know which documents need to be translated by a certified translation office in Saudi Arabia?

🔹 1. Identify the Purpose of Your Document

Different authorities in Saudi Arabia have different requirements:

Purpose	Commonly Required Documents	Certified Translation Needed?
Visa application	Birth certificate, marriage certificate, bank statements	✅ Yes
Employment in Saudi Arabia	Academic degrees, experience letters	✅ Yes
Business registration	Company incorporation documents, legal contracts	✅ Yes
Educational equivalency (for MOE)	Degree certificates, transcripts	✅ Yes
Court or legal matters	Power of attorney, legal judgments	✅ Yes
Residency/Iqama services	Birth certificate, marriage certificate	✅ Yes

🔹 2. Check the Authority’s Specific Guidelines

• Visit the website of the authority you're submitting to (e.g., Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Education, Saudi Embassy).

• Look for their document requirements and any mention of “certified translation” or “legalized translation.”

• Some may require the translation to be done inside Saudi Arabia by a Saudi Ministry of Commerce-licensed translator.

  
  

🔹 3. Translation Musts

• Documents not in Arabic must be translated.

• The translation must be:

  • Accurate

  • Stamped by a certified translator

  • Sometimes notarized or authenticated

    
    

✅ Tip:

If you're applying for a Saudi visa from abroad, the Saudi Embassy or Consulate in your country will usually have a list of required documents and whether they must be translated by an accredited translator.

JCT TRANSLATION OFFICE