A certification confirms the authenticity of documents or signatures. In Germany, there are different types of certifications, including certified copies and certified translations (beglaubigte Kopien and beglaubigte Übersetzungen).

Certified copies are used to verify the authenticity of certificates and diplomas. To obtain a certified copy, one submits the original document along with a copy to an authorized entity such as a notary, government office, or university. The entity verifies the conformity and certifies the copy.

Certified translations are required to use documents in another language. A certified translation is prepared by a sworn translator and accompanied by a certification statement. This statement confirms the accuracy and completeness of the translation, as well as the qualifications of the translator. Certified translations can be requested from sworn translators or specialized translation services.

The difference between certified copies and certified translations lies in their scope of application. Certified copies confirm the authenticity of original documents, while certified translations enable the use of translated documents in official procedures. Certified copies are issued by competent authorities in Germany, while certified translations are provided by sworn translators or specialized translation services.