Translating documents into English

Get a document translated into English so you can use it in NZ.

You can use the Department of Internal Affairs Translation Service.

Decide what you need to translate

You might be able to get a selective translation — only the information that is needed is translated.

You can get a selective translation for a:

  • birth certificate
  • marriage certificate
  • divorce certificate
  • death certificate
  • police clearance
  • name change certificate
  • driver licence.

Other documents may need to be translated in full.

If you're applying for NZ citizenship, you can use the same translation you used for your immigration visa application. You don’t need to get a new translation of the document.

What it costs

It costs:

  • $75 for a selective translation
  • $90 for an urgent translation.

The Translation Service will give you a quote if you're getting a document translated in full.

What you need to provide

You don't need to send the original documents — a copy is fine.

When you contact the Translation Service, you need to tell them:

  • what you need to get translated
  • how you want the translation returned to you — email, courier, post or pick-up
  • your name, contact and payment information.

There's a form you can fill in to give this information, but you don't need to use it.

Request for translation (PDF 333KB)

How to pay

You can pay by:

  • Visa, MasterCard or American Express — include your card details when you send your documents or include a phone number if you want to give your card details over the phone
  • cheque made out to the Department of Internal Affairs
  • money order
  • EFTPOS or cash if you order your translation in person.

If you're a company

Companies ordering translations can choose to be invoiced after the translation is done.

If you want to be invoiced, include:

  • your postal address or the email address for your finance department
  • any reference you'd like on the invoice.

How to contact the Translation Service

You can send your documents and information by email, post, courier or in person.

Email

translate@dia.govt.nz

Post

Translation Service
Department of Internal Affairs
PO Box 805
Wellington 6140

Courier

Translation Service
Level 5, 120 Victoria Street
Wellington 6011

In person

Wellington
Archives NZ
10 Mulgrave Street
Wellington

Auckland
Level 6, AA Building
99 Albert Street
Auckland Central

Manukau
7 Ronwood Avenue
Manukau 2104

Christchurch
Level 1, BNZ Centre
120 Hereford Street
Christchurch Central

How long it takes

Selective translations are usually returned to you after 2 to 4 working days. Full translations may take longer.

If your translation is urgent, it'll be made a priority.

If you need it done by a certain date, tell the Translation Service.

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