Planning a wedding in Japan as a foreign couple can be an exciting yet complex journey. One of the essential steps in making your marriage legally recognized is ensuring that all necessary wedding documents are correctly translated. Whether you need a translation for your marriage registration, residency procedures, or other official paperwork, finding a reliable translation service in Tokyo is crucial.

This guide will explore why document translation is necessary, the types of translation services available, key considerations when choosing a service, the step-by-step process, and the risks of attempting DIY translation.

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Why You Might Need to Get Wedding Documents Translated

Since Japan requires official documents in Japanese, you’ll need to have them translated before submission.

If your home country’s documents are not in Japanese, they must be translated before submission to local government offices. 

Common documents that require translation include:

• Marriage Certificate – for legal recognition in Japan or your home country. You may need to translate into your language to understand.
• Certificate of No Impediment (CNI) or Affidavit of Competency to Marry – to prove that you are single and that you are qualified to marry (i.e.: the age). This needs to be translated into Japanese.
• Passport or ID – for identity verification of yourself. This needs to be translated into Japanese.
• Birth Certificate (if your partner is Japanese) – to confirm the identity and nationality of your partner.

If your country does not provide a certificate of No impediment to the Affidavit of Competency to Marry, you will need to create an alternative document with a Japanese translation.

Without accurate translations, your marriage registration may be delayed or rejected. You can still translate yourself, but choosing a professional and reliable translation service can help you to release some burden.

Types of Translation Services Available

When looking for a translation service in Tokyo, you’ll find several options. You can use certified translation agencies, freelance translators, notary/embassy translation services, and machine translation services.

Certified Translation Agencies

Certified translation agencies specialize in official translations and provide documents. The price varies depending on the agency, but we can look for translation agencies focusing on legal documents.

The agencies below have experience in translating marriage-related documents:

Freelance Translators

Some experienced translators offer legal translation services at competitive prices. Quality and knowledge vary, so it’s essential to check reviews and credentials.

Document translation services in Tokyo:

• Upwork – You can hire with an hourly rate 
• Fiverr. – Great for a short-term translation such as marriage documents
• Crowdworks – Japanese crowdworks service. You will need to be able to read Japanese

Notary/Embassy Translation Services

Some embassies provide in-house translation services or recommend certified translators. This option ensures compliance with both Japanese and foreign regulations.

You can access or contact your country’s embassy for the services.

Machine Translation Services

If you have Japanese-speaking friends with you, you can use free online translation tools and have them review the translation for accuracy.

Avoid entering sensitive information on the online tool, as it has the risk of exposure. 

• Google Translator – it offers 132 languages
• DeepL – it offers about 30 languages and the translation has a higher quality
• QuillBot – it offers 50 languages. It specializes in rewriting of articles

Key Considerations When Choosing a Service

Choose the translation service that is experienced in marriage documents, as they understand the specific requirements needed for approval.

Here are key factors to consider:

• Experience in marriage documents – Look for translators or translation agencies with some experience in marriage documents likely understand what kind of information or translation is needed to complete the process.
• Accuracy and Experience – Look for providers experienced in legal and marriage-related translations to avoid errors.
• Turnaround Time – Some translations take a few days, while others may take weeks. Choose a service that fits your timeline.
• Cost and Transparency – Prices vary based on document type and urgency. Be sure to get a clear quote before proceeding.
• Reviews and Recommendations – Check online reviews, testimonials, or embassy recommendations for reliable services.

Step-by-Step Process for Wedding Documents Translation 

If you need to get your wedding documents translated, follow these steps:

1. Check the required documents
2. Select a translation service 
3. Submit your documents to your translator or translation agency
4. Wait until the translation is completed
5. Submit the documents to the authorities
6. Review if it needs re-submission
7. Receive approval 

💡 Take Note: When submitting your translation documents, you may need a stamp (inkan or hanko) from the translator. In Japan, this stamp is used as a form of verification to confirm identity. If you are the translator, you can submit the document with your stamp. However, finding a Japanese stamp with your name may be difficult, and you might need to ask for customization to create your stamp.

For this reason, it may be more convenient to work with an agency or a freelance translator who already has a Japanese stamp. If you’re unsure whether a stamp is required in your area, check with your local city hall.

DIY Translation: Pros and Risks

Translating the wedding documents yourself saves costs, but this also comes with some risks. If certification is required, professional service is the safest option to avoid delays or rejections.

Pros:

• Cost Savings – You will translate it on your own, so it will be free of charge
• Faster Process – Only you are involved, so the translation can be completed faster

Cons:

• Rejection – You might get rejected due to the translated documents
• Legal Inaccuracies – You might miss information that is legally required
• Time-Consuming – You may need to resubmit a few times until it is accepted

Hire a Translator for a Hassle-free Wedding in Tokyo

Getting your wedding documents translated into Tokyo is a crucial step for a smooth and legally recognized marriage process. Choosing a reliable provider ensures your documents meet official requirements, whether it’s a certified agency, freelance translator, or embassy service.

Wishing you a beautiful and stress-free wedding in Japan!