Official documents from Arabic-speaking countries come in many formats: handwritten civil registers, computer-printed certificates, bilingual forms, documents stamped by several ministries. Translating them well requires knowing what each section means, not just what the words say. Below are the documents we translate most often and what to watch for.

Civil status documents

Birth certificates

Arabic birth certificates and birth extracts often include the full chain of names (given name, father's name, grandfather's name, family name), place of registration, and Hijri as well as Gregorian dates. We render every name consistently with your passport and convert nothing without showing the original. Read more in our guide to Arabic names and Hijri dates.

Marriage contracts and certificates

Marriage contracts may include the dowry (mahr), witnesses, the officiant and court registration details. All of these must appear in a certified translation.

Divorce decrees and family court rulings

We translate divorce certificates, custody rulings and other family court judgments, keeping court names, case numbers and dates exact.

Family registers and civil status extracts

Family books and household registers list several people over multiple pages. Each entry is translated in order, with tables preserved.

Academic documents

Diplomas, degree certificates, transcripts, mark sheets and course descriptions for US universities, employers and credential evaluators. Grading scales and course titles are translated faithfully, not converted, so the evaluator can apply their own equivalency rules.

Identity and legal records

Passports, national ID cards and residence permits
Driver's licenses for DMV applications
Police clearance and good conduct certificates
Military service records
Court records and judgments (see legal translation)

Financial and employment documents

Bank statements, tax records, payslips, employment letters and business registration certificates, often requested for visa sponsorship, mortgages or professional licensing.

Tips for sending documents

Photograph or scan every page, in good light, with all four edges visible.
Include the back of the document if anything is printed, stamped or written on it.
Send the English spelling of every name exactly as it should appear.
Tell us where the translation will be submitted so we choose the right certification.