Frequently asked questions
Prices depend on the document, languages, deadline and destination country, so every file gets an individual, free quote.
ABC Translation
How much do your services cost?
Prices vary according to the document, number of pages, language pair, deadline, official fees and destination country. Send us your documents through the form or by email for a free, detailed quote.
How do I pay?
Payment terms and accepted methods are indicated on your quote.
Do I have to come to your office?
No. Most of our clients never visit us: documents are sent by email and originals travel by courier.
Are my documents kept confidential?
Yes. Your files are only used to process your request and are shared only with the translators and offices involved.
Can you help if I live abroad?
Yes — a large share of our clients are Tunisians abroad. We retrieve, translate, apostille or legalize documents in Tunisia and send them to you anywhere in the world.
Certified Translation
What is the difference between a certified and a normal translation?
A certified (sworn) translation is signed and stamped by a translator sworn before the courts, which gives it legal value. A normal translation has no official standing and is usually refused by administrations.
Will my translation be accepted abroad?
Most countries accept a Tunisian sworn translation, sometimes with an apostille or consular legalization on top. A few authorities (for example in Germany or Spain) prefer translators sworn in their own country — we check this with you first and organise the right option through our international network.
Apostille
Which countries accept the apostille?
All countries that are party to the Hague Apostille Convention. For non-member countries (for example many Gulf and some African states) you need consular legalization instead — see our legalization service.
Should the translation be done before or after the apostille?
It depends on the receiving country. Usually the original is apostilled first and then translated, but some authorities also want the translation itself apostilled. We confirm the correct order before starting.
Consular & Embassy Legalization
Do I need an apostille or a legalization?
If the destination country is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, an apostille is enough. Otherwise, consular legalization is required. Tell us the destination and the purpose and we will confirm.
How long does embassy legalization take?
It depends heavily on the embassy: some legalize within a day, others take one to two weeks. We give you a realistic timeline with the quote.
Certified True Copies & Signature Legalization
Is a certified copy accepted instead of the original?
For most applications (universities, employers, many administrations) yes. Some authorities insist on the original; we check this with you beforehand.
Can a certified copy be apostilled?
Yes, a certified copy made by a competent authority is a public document and can generally receive an apostille, which is often the safest way to send diplomas abroad.
Power of Attorney
I live in Europe. How do I give a power of attorney for Tunisia?
You can usually sign it at the Tunisian consulate in your country, or before a local notary with apostille and sworn translation. We prepare the bilingual text so you only need to sign.
General or special power of attorney?
Tunisian institutions — especially for property — usually prefer a special power of attorney that describes the exact transaction. We advise you on the right wording.
Document Retrieval
Can you obtain my documents without a power of attorney?
Some extracts can be requested with a copy of your ID; others, such as court or land documents, require a power of attorney. We tell you which case applies before starting.
How long does retrieval take?
Civil-status extracts are often quick; university, court and archive documents can take longer. We give an estimate for each document and keep you informed.
Interpreting
How far in advance should I book an interpreter?
As early as possible — ideally one week for meetings and several weeks for conferences. Short-notice requests are often possible, especially for Arabic, French and English.
Do you travel outside Tunis?
Yes, our interpreters cover the whole country, including Sfax, Sousse, Monastir, Djerba and the interior regions. Travel costs are included in the quote.
Request a free quote
Tell us what you need and attach your documents. We reply quickly with a detailed quote.
Prefer to write or call directly? info@abc-offices.com · +1 315 820 1187