Certified translations
Visa, university and recognition applications usually require certified (beglaubigte) translations of your certificates by a sworn translator. Here is what counts and roughly what it costs.
What 'certified' means
A translation stamped by a court-sworn (beeidigt/vereidigt) translator. Some authorities accept translations done in your home country; others require a Germany-sworn translator — check the specific requirement.
Which documents
Typically degree certificates, transcripts, birth and marriage certificates. Originals plus certified copies are often needed alongside the translation.