Frequently asked questions

A certified translation carries the translator's statement of accuracy. A sworn translation is produced by a translator who has taken an oath before a court and applies their official seal. We tell you which one the receiving organisation requires.

A routine civil-status document usually takes a few working days. An express service is available on request. The exact turnaround is stated on your quote.

Yes. A legible scan or clear photo is enough for the quote and the translation. If the receiving organisation needs the original or a legalisation, we explain how to get it to us.

The price depends on the language pair, length, subject matter and deadline. Send us your document through the form and you will receive a free, no-obligation quote.

Not at present: since Benin is not a party to the Apostille Convention, its public documents go through legalisation (Ministry of Foreign Affairs, then the destination country's embassy or consulate). We handle the whole chain.

It depends on the destination country. Often the original is apostilled and then translated; some countries also want the translation apostilled. We confirm the exact order before starting.

It depends on the issuing country's authority, from a few days to a few weeks, plus shipping. We give you a realistic estimate in the quote.

An apostille is a single formality between Hague Convention countries. Legalisation is a chain of several certifications (ministry, then embassy) used when one of the countries is not a member, which is currently the case for Benin.

Usually not. You hand over your documents (in person, by courier or by post) and we take care of the formalities. Some embassies do require you in person for other procedures, such as a visa application.

Some countries require it, others don't. We check the receiving organisation's requirements and schedule the translation before or after the original is legalised accordingly.

Often, provided it is legalised and, where necessary, translated. Some organisations still require the original, so we check before starting.

Yes, the certifying authority must see the original. We explain how to hand it over safely and return it to you with the certified copy.

Yes. It is usually signed before a notary or authorised official in France, then legalised for use in Benin. We coordinate every step from Cotonou and our network in France.

It depends on the wording and the receiving organisation: some require it to be less than three or six months old. We flag this from the start.

Usually a copy of your ID, a signed authorisation and the document's references (place and date of registration, institution, registry number…). The exact list depends on the document and comes with your quote.

Yes, we work across all twelve departments of Benin, from Porto-Novo to Kandi. Turnaround depends on the office involved and the distance.

Ideally one to two weeks for a meeting, longer for a simultaneous conference. For urgent needs, call us and we will do our best.

Yes, anywhere in Benin. Any travel and accommodation costs are shown in the quote.