Certified copy (FAQ)

Certified copy – What is it? What do you need it for and where can you get it?

You have questions? I have answers!

1. What is a certified copy?

It is a copy of a document with a certificate stating that the contents match the original, as well as the name of the person who made the copy, the date, number of pages etc.

2. What is a certified copy for?

A certified translation must be inseparably attached to the original document.

If you no longer need the document, or don’t mind that the translation will be physically bound to it, there is nothing more to worry about. However, if you want to keep hold of it, you need to arrange for a certified copy.

Example: You need a legal translation of your high school diploma. It is possible that you might need this diploma again in the future, in which case, it might be preferable to keep it untouched and arrange for a certified copy.

3. Where can I get a certified copy from?

There are three options, you can choose the one most suitable for you:

1. Notary
2. Post office with a CzechPoint
3. Municipal or regional authority

4. Does it matter who produced the certified copy?

In principle, no, but it depends on the document language.

• Documents in Czech – You can get a certified copy from a notary, CzechPoint, or municipal/regional office.
• Documents in a foreign language – only a notary can make a certified copy (with the exception of Slovak documents, which can be taken to a CzechPoint)

Example: You need an official translation of your birth certificate from Czech to English.
The fastest option would be to obtain a certified copy from your nearest post office with CzechPoint services.

It also depends on your document’s format:

• Documents no larger than A4 size – A notary, Czech Point, or municipal/regional authority can provide a certified copy.
• A3 documents or larger – Only a notary can produce a certified copy as post offices don’t usually have a big enough photocopier. Before heading to see the notary, it is advisable to phone ahead to check if they can copy your format.

Example: You need an official translation of a university degree certificate from a different country. The certificate is in English in A3 size → You need to go to a notary for a copy.

Apart from a few specific exceptions, they’ll produce a copy for you there and then.

5. How do I obtain a certified copy?

1. Choose the most suitable place for you (see above).
2. Bring the original document that you need a copy of.
3. The authorised person will copy the document and provide an endorsement, stamp, and signature.
4. Pay for the service and you’re done.

6. How much does a certified copy cost?

The price per page is around 35 CZK. Check the Czech Post price list for more details.

7. Is a certified copy needed before or after requesting a translation?

It doesn’t really matter. The fastest, most efficient way is as follows:

1. Take a photo of your documents and send them via e-mail to be translated.
2. Obtain a certified copy.
3. Send over a photo of the certified copy (including the second side and the details printed on it).

Have I missed anything?

Do you need a certified translation?