What Does a Certified Italian Translator Actually Do?

If you’re in the process of applying for Italian dual citizenship, you’ve probably come across the requirement for “certified translations.” But what does that really mean? And what does a Certified Italian Translator actually do?

Let’s break it down.

Certified Translation vs. Regular Translation
First, it’s important to understand that certified translation is not the same as simply translating a document. A certified Italian translator is a professional who not only translates your documents accurately but also provides an official declaration that the translation is complete and true to the original. This certification is often required by Italian consulates, courts, and government offices for legal purposes—especially in dual citizenship applications.

In other words: when it comes to legal documents, accuracy isn’t just preferred—it’s essential.

Legal and Cultural Accuracy
A certified translator working with legal documents must have a deep understanding of both languages and both legal systems. Why? Because terminology doesn’t always translate word-for-word. A birth certificate or naturalization document may have terms that need to be rendered precisely to match Italian legal expectations.

An experienced professional like Natalia Bertelli doesn’t just translate words—she translates meaning. She ensures that each document makes sense in its Italian context and maintains the legal intent of the original. This is vital when you're proving family lineage or legal status to the Italian government.

Formatting That Matches the Original
Another important responsibility of a certified translator is formatting. Italian consulates are notoriously strict about how documents appear. Translated documents often need to mirror the structure and layout of the original, so they’re easy to compare side by side.
A certified translator knows how to recreate this structure perfectly while maintaining the integrity of the translation. It's not just about what the document says—it's how it looks.

Certification Statement and Signature
Once the translation is complete, the certified translator will attach a signed statement, often called a certificate of accuracy. This states that the translation is complete and accurate to the best of the translator’s knowledge and ability. In many cases, this document must also be notarized, depending on consulate requirements.

Some Italian consulates have their own rules about certifications and notarizations, so working with someone who understands these varying procedures is key to avoiding delays or rejections.

Peace of Mind
​Most importantly, a certified translator provides peace of mind. You won’t need to second-guess whether your documents will be accepted. A professional like Natalia Bertelli knows exactly what Italian consulates expect and has the experience to deliver translations that meet those standards.

Ready to Get Started?
If you're preparing your application for Italian dual citizenship and need certified translations you can trust, reach out to Natalia Bertelli. As a professional Italian legal translator with years of experience, she’ll guide you through the process and ensure your documents are translated accurately, professionally, and in full compliance with consulate requirements.
Contact Natalia Bertelli today to get started with your certified Italian translations!