When we moved to Australia on a 482 visa, the first admin job on my list was translation. I needed English versions of vaccine records and my driver’s licence. The government’s Free Translating Service made it easy. Here’s how I did it, and what I’d prepare before you start.

What I prepared

  • Personal documents for translation (with my name on them)
  • Passport photo page or ImmiCard
  • Visa grant notice and a VEVO visa details check (you can get this from Visa Entitlement Verification Online)

If you’re applying for a child (under 18):

  • Parent or legal guardian details (full name, date of birth, email, phone, relationship)
  • Parent or guardian’s passport photo page or ImmiCard

Photo: free translating service in Melbourne

Where I applied

I applied online via the Department of Home Affairs: Free Translating Service.

I created an account, then uploaded documents and submitted the application.

Step-by-step

  1. Step 1: Check eligibility
    Confirm your visa type and that you qualify for the free service.

  2. Step 2: Evidence of identity
    Upload your passport photo page or ImmiCard.

  3. Step 3: Visa evidence
    Upload your visa grant notice and your VEVO visa details check.

  4. Step 4 — Documents to translate

  • Upload full copies (front and back, cover to cover where relevant).
  • Upload colour copies, not black and white.
  • Don’t combine multiple documents in one file.
  • Accepted formats: PDF, DOCX, JPG, PNG (max 25MB per document).

Important names and spellings

You’ll be asked for the preferred English spelling of names, places, and organisations. I typed these into the “Additional notes” field:

  • All personal names (parents, children, spouse)
  • Organisations (schools, companies, government bodies)
  • Geographic locations (cities, provinces, districts)

How long it took (for us)

From submission to delivery, our translations took about 15 days. I received the files by email as digital copies. They worked for school enrolment and other services.

Tips I’d share

  • Start early. Translation can take time during busy periods.
  • Prepare clean, legible scans. Colour helps avoid resubmissions.
  • Double-check English spellings before you submit.

If you’re planning a move soon, gather your documents now and check eligibility. A little preparation will make this step smooth.

For more details, FAQs, or help, visit the website.