In asylum proceedings, even a small translation error can distort a client's account and damage credibility. This article explores why professional certified translation is non-negotiable in immigration cases.
The Stakes of Translation in Asylum Cases
An asylum seeker's case often turns on credibility. When evidence — written testimony, supporting documents, country-specific materials — is translated inaccurately or inconsistently, the impact on credibility before a tribunal can be devastating. We have seen cases where small but significant translation errors introduced apparent contradictions into a client's account, leading to adverse credibility findings that proved difficult to overturn on appeal.
Common Translation Problems in Asylum Cases
- Inconsistent name transliterations across documents
- Date format errors introducing apparent inconsistencies
- Mistranslation of place names — villages, districts, provinces
- Incorrect rendering of titles and forms of address
- Loss of nuance in threatening or persecutory language
- Failure to translate marginal annotations or stamps on official documents
What to Look for in a Translation Provider
When commissioning translations for asylum cases, always ensure your provider uses native speakers of the source language with relevant subject-matter expertise. A general-purpose translation agency may not have translators experienced with legal terminology or country-specific nuance. At Ereventis, all translators working on immigration matters have direct knowledge of the relevant legal and country context, and all translations are reviewed by a second specialist before delivery.
Our Commitment to Accuracy
Ereventis has been providing certified translations for immigration and asylum cases since 2014. Our dual-review process ensures that every translation is accurate, complete, and appropriately certified before it reaches your client's file. We have never had a certified translation rejected by the Home Office, First-tier Tribunal, or UK court.
Ereventis provides independent country expert reports, SQE preparation courses, and certified translation services to legal professionals across the UK.