This page covers how certified translation by a NAATI-certified translator works. A Thai-language document intended for an Australian authority is translated into English by a translator certified by NAATI in the Thai→English direction, then issued with a certification statement and stamp showing the translator's CPN and certification expiry. The original (or a certified copy) is submitted together with the translation.
| Certification system | NAATI Certified Translator (individual certification, per language direction) |
|---|---|
| Language direction | Thai → English (and English → Thai as a separate certification) |
| What appears on the stamp | Translator name, CPN, language direction, certification expiry |
| Formats | Digitally stamped PDF for online lodgement; hard copy where a paper file is required |
| Submitted with | Original document or certified copy |
| Turnaround | Varies by document volume and delivery method — confirm per job |
The Department of Home Affairs distinguishes by where the translation is produced. Translations made **inside Australia** must be done by a translator certified by NAATI. Translations made **outside Australia** do not require NAATI, but the translation must show the translator's full name, address, contact details, qualifications and experience. In practice the NAATI format remains the one Australian authorities recognise most readily. Note that NAATI certifies individuals, never companies — always verify the individual translator's CPN.
Source: Department of Home Affairs — Document translation requirements
That is a separate track. Australian authorities work with the NAATI system; Thai consular legalization is required when a Thai document must be recognised by a non-Australian authority or by Thai agencies.
Many Australian bodies require civil registry extracts issued within the last 3–6 months. Check the receiving authority's rule before requesting a translation.
No provider can: NAATI certifies individual translators only. We work with translators certified by NAATI, and each translation carries that individual's CPN, which you can verify in the NAATI Online Directory.
Digitally stamped PDFs are designed for online lodgement and remain verifiable as long as the file is not reprinted or re-scanned. Confirm the receiving authority accepts digital certification before choosing that format.
Information current as of 2026-07-23. Requirements differ between receiving authorities — always confirm with the body that will receive your documents.