Frequently asked questions
Short answers to the questions we are asked most often. If your question is not here, contact us.
Frequently asked questions
Why don't you publish fixed prices?
The price depends on the document type, length, language pair, required certification and destination country. Instead of a price list that rarely fits, we give every client a free fixed quote.
Which payment methods do you accept?
Bank transfer and card payment. Payment details are included with your quote.
Which documents need certified translation in Bahrain?
Bahraini authorities generally require a certified Arabic or English translation of any official document that is not already in Arabic or English, and sometimes of English documents as well.
What is the difference between apostille and legalization?
An apostille is a single certificate valid between Hague Apostille Convention countries. Legalization is a chain of verifications ending at the destination country's embassy, used when an apostille is not accepted.
Can I send documents by email?
Yes. For a quote and for most translations a clear scan is enough. We tell you in advance if an original is needed.
Do you work with companies and law firms?
Yes. We offer monthly invoicing, confidentiality agreements and dedicated case managers for business clients.
Is my data safe?
Documents are only accessible to the people working on your case and are deleted when your case is closed, unless you ask us to keep them.
Certified Translation
How long does a certified translation take?
Standard personal documents such as birth or marriage certificates are usually ready within 1–2 working days. Larger files are scheduled individually, and express service is available.
Do you need the original document?
For most translations a clear scan or photo is enough. If the translation must be bound to the original or notarized, we will tell you in advance whether we need to see the original.
Will my translation be accepted by the authority?
We prepare translations according to the requirements of the receiving authority. Tell us where the document will be submitted and we will confirm the correct format before we start.
Legal Translation
Can you translate documents for Bahraini courts?
Yes. We translate pleadings, evidence and judgments into Arabic or from Arabic, and we prepare them in the format required for submission.
Do you sign NDAs?
Yes. We routinely sign non-disclosure agreements, and every translator is bound by confidentiality obligations.
Can you produce a bilingual contract?
Yes. We can prepare side-by-side Arabic–English or other bilingual versions, ready for signature.
Document Attestation (MOFA)
What is the difference between attestation and apostille?
An apostille is a single certificate used between countries that are party to the Hague Apostille Convention. Attestation and legalization involve several authorities and are used when the destination country does not accept an apostille.
How long does MOFA attestation take?
Timing depends on the document and on which authorities need to sign before the ministry. We give you a realistic timeline with your quote.
Do I need to come in person?
Usually not. In most cases we can handle the entire process for you with an authorization letter.
Apostille
Is an apostille accepted everywhere?
No. Apostilles are only accepted by countries that are party to the Hague Apostille Convention. For other countries we arrange full consular or embassy legalization instead.
Can you apostille a document issued in another country here in Bahrain?
No authority can apostille another country's document. We obtain the apostille from the issuing country through our partners and deliver it to you in Bahrain.
Does the translation need an apostille too?
Sometimes. Some destinations require the translation itself to be certified, notarized or apostilled. We confirm this before we start.
Consulate & Embassy Legalization
Which countries require embassy legalization?
Countries that are not party to the Hague Apostille Convention generally require consular legalization. Requirements change, so we check the current rules for your destination before we start.
Are the embassy fees included in your quote?
Your quote lists our service fee and the official embassy and ministry fees separately, so you know exactly what you are paying for.
Can you legalize documents for a country without an embassy in Bahrain?
Yes. We use the nearest competent embassy or consulate in the region or work through our international offices.
Notary Services
Do I have to attend the notary in person?
If you are signing, the notary usually needs to see you and your ID. For notarized translations and copies, we can often handle the process without you attending.
Which ID do I need to bring?
Usually your passport or CPR card. We will confirm what is needed when we book your appointment.
Can a notarized document be used outside Bahrain?
Often only after attestation, apostille or legalization. Tell us the destination country and we will plan the necessary steps.
Power of Attorney
How quickly can a POA be ready?
A simple power of attorney can often be drafted and notarized within a few working days. Legalization for use abroad adds time depending on the destination.
Can you draft the text of the power of attorney?
Yes. We draft clear bilingual text based on the powers you want to grant. For complex legal matters we recommend you also consult a lawyer.
Can a POA be revoked?
Yes, a power of attorney can generally be revoked through a notarized revocation. We can prepare and process the revocation for you.
Certified True Copies
Do you need to see the original?
Yes. A true copy can only be certified after the original has been compared with the copy.
Can I get several certified copies at once?
Yes. Tell us how many sets you need and we will prepare them in one appointment.
Will a certified copy be accepted by a foreign bank?
Requirements vary. Some banks also require an apostille or legalization. Send us the bank's instructions and we will match them.
Document Retrieval
Which information do you need?
Usually the full name, date and place of the event, parents' names for civil records, and a copy of your ID. We send you a checklist for your specific request.
How long does document retrieval take?
It depends on the country and the authority, from a few days to several weeks. We give you an estimate with your quote.
Can you get a police clearance from my home country?
In many countries yes, although some require fingerprints or an in-person application. We confirm what is possible before you commit.
Interpreting
How far in advance should I book?
For meetings, a few days' notice is usually enough. For conferences and rare languages we recommend booking as early as possible. Same-day requests are handled whenever an interpreter is available.
Which is better, consecutive or simultaneous?
Consecutive is ideal for meetings and appointments. Simultaneous suits conferences with many participants and requires equipment. We will recommend the right format.
Do you offer remote interpreting?
Yes, by phone or through Zoom, Teams and other platforms.
Request a free quote
Tell us what you need. Attach your documents if you can – it lets us give you an exact price straight away.
Every document is different, so we quote each request individually. Send us a photo or scan and you will receive a fixed price and turnaround time, free of charge and with no obligation.
- Emailinfo@abc-offices.com
- Phone+1 315 820 1187