You can keep remaining time in credit for up to six months. You can also use that credit towards other services like translation or Telephone Time. Keep in mind that when you book a coaching slot, you will automatically use at least 30 of your 60 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you give me a ballpark quote for a translation without having seen the document?
No. I have to see the document before any numbers can be generated, ballpark figures or otherwise.
Can I get a quote for a translation based on a similar document?
I can only give you a binding quote once I’ve seen the document you actually want translated.
Can I bring the document to your office?
It’s not necessary and our office is not always manned. Please send a PDF of your document/s using the contact form. We’re very quick to respond!
Do I have to show the original document?
Not usually, I can work with a scan as long as it is good quality and legible. The only exception would be if the office that needs your certified translation has stated specifically that the translator must sight the original document. I rarely see this in Germany, but it can be common for passport, visa or citizenship applications being sent away to foreign countries. If that’s the case, you must let me know in advance. I will organise an appointment for you to pick up your translation personally in Berlin and you should bring the original document with you.
Can you travel anywhere with me?
In Berlin, Frankfurt and Munich we travel anywhere within the defined metro areas (e.g. Berlin AB, Frankfurt City Zone, Munich Inner District). If your appointment is outside these areas, contact us for more information.
Which languages do you offer?
All interpreters speak fluent German and English. It might also be possible to find an interpreter who offers another language pair – just ask.
Do all appointments cost the same amount?
No, it depends on a few things.
If it’s a fairly standard type of appointment (e.g. foreigner’s office, Bürgeramt, etc) and you don’t need someone with any specific qualification or specialisation area, then the cost won’t change.
Sometimes I might be dealing with complex information, legal content, or a topic area for which I need to do a bit of advance preparation. Or, the office you’re visiting needs you to bring a court-sworn interpreter. If that’s the case, the fee might be a little bit or a lot higher.
Who will come with me to my appointment?
It’ll either be me (Kathleen Parker) or one of my colleagues. We are all fluent in German and English and have accompanied many many people to their appointments at the Ausländerbehörde, Standesamt, Bürgeramt, Finanzamt, Jugendamt, Mieterverein, rental agency, Kita, business meeting, IKEA (yes, we can come shopping with you too!), etc. Some of us are court-sworn.
I’ll always choose the interpreter that I feel is best qualified to handle your appointment.
I need a court-sworn interpreter. Are you qualified?
I don’t have that qualification but I work with interpreters who do. Send me the details and I’ll get you a quote.
Should I have a confirmed appointment with the office I want to visit before I book with Red Tape Translation?
It’s not a must, but if you can, you will save yourself time and money. Booking an appointment ensures that the office will be open, that you will be in the right place and that we won’t have to stand in line.
If you’re not sure where to go or how to get an appointment in the first place, get Red Tape Translation to help you. I’ll find out which office is responsible for your case and book you the next available appointment. The cost is either 19 EUR or 55 EUR. If it can be booked quickly and easily (e.g. you need to register your address), it’ll be 19 EUR. If it takes weeks or months and requires hardcore website refreshing or 10 follow-up emails, it will be 55 EUR. Appointments at the Standesamt, Jugendamt and foreigner’s office automatically attract a booking fee of 55 EUR. We wish things were different!
How will I meet you before my scheduled appointment?
Once you have booked and paid for Red Tape Translation, I will send you an email with everything you need to know. Interpreters wear Red Tape Translation badges, and you’ll always have each other’s mobile number in case something goes wrong.