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The basis of calculation: character count
The commonly used unit for written translation is the number of characters excluding spaces. In the industry, 1,000 characters excluding spaces are considered one "page"; this differs from the number of physical A4 pages.
A one-page population registry extract and a one-page contract containing dense text can have very different character counts. This is why a price cannot be given before reviewing the document.
Other factors affecting the price
- Language pair: the unit price rises for languages with fewer sworn translators.
- Specialist subject matter: medical, legal, and technical texts require terminology research.
- Urgency: a request for same-day delivery changes how the job is scheduled.
- Document format: text must be reconstructed for scanned or handwritten documents.
- Repetition: the unit price may fall for multi-page files with similar structures.
Translation fees and certification costs are separate
When requesting pricing, it is advisable to ask about each item separately:
- Translation fee — paid to the agency
- Notarial fee — determined and collected by the notary
- Apostille — free of charge at governors' offices and district governors' offices
- Consular legalisation fee — determined by the relevant consulate
- Courier charge — where requested
When a quotation gives only a single combined figure, it becomes unclear which cost relates to which service.
Points to consider
- Amounts charged as an "apostille fee": the apostille itself is free of charge in Türkiye. This item can be charged only for handling the process, and that must be stated clearly.
- A firm price given before reviewing the document: a price given without knowing the character count carries a risk of changing upon delivery.
- Items added later: ask at the outset whether the quotation covers the entire job.
- Extremely low prices: where the checking stage is skipped, a translation error can result in a rejected application.
What should you include when requesting a quotation?
To receive a prompt, firm quotation, simply provide the following:
- A photograph or scan of the document
- Target language
- The institution and country where the document will be submitted
- Whether notarisation is required (if known)
- Your required delivery date
Frequently asked questions
Is there a charge for a quotation?
No, preparing a quotation is free of charge.
Will the quoted price change upon delivery?
The amount communicated after reviewing the document does not change upon delivery. If the scope is expanded later, you will be informed separately about the additional item.
Do I pay the notarial fee to you?
The notarial fee is collected by the notary. When our office handles this process, the fee paid is documented and passed on to you.
This content is for information purposes. The documents and procedures required by institutions may change; we recommend confirming the requirements with the relevant institution before applying.
