With over 35 years of experience in translating and legalizing academic documents, the team at MiTRa Translations Ltd. shares the most important tips to help you avoid administrative pitfalls when applying to universities outside of Bulgaria.
1. Check the Requirements of the Destination Country and University
Each country — and even each university — may have different requirements when it comes to translation and legalization. The most reliable source of information is the official website of the university you’re applying to. If in doubt, don’t hesitate to reach out to their admissions office directly — responses are often prompt and helpful.
2. Mind the Deadlines
Start preparing your documents as early as possible once you’ve decided to apply.
Keep in mind: Translating and legalizing a diploma typically takes 5 to 10 business days.
3. Choose a Trusted Translation Agency with Academic Expertise
Look for a translation agency that specializes in diplomas, transcripts, and academic records. These professionals understand the nuances of academic terminology and will provide a translation that mirrors the structure and formatting of the original — something many universities specifically require.
4. What Does Diploma Legalization Involve?
Legalization includes:
- An apostille issued by the National Center for Information and Documentation (NACID) on a notarized copy of the diploma (or a regular copy, for diplomas issued after 2023)
- Certification of the translator’s signature by the Consular Relations Directorate at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Important: Some countries, like the UK, Germany, and France, do not accept electronic apostilles. Others, such as Italy, do. Always check the exact requirements for the country you’re applying to.
5. Double-Check the Original Documents
When submitting your documents for translation:
- Bring the original diploma and its supplement
- Ensure that all details — names, birth dates, institution names, specializations, and grades — match exactly across all documents
- Even a minor error or inconsistency can result in a rejected application
Bonus Tips from the Experts at Mitra Translations
- We can prepare a notarized copy of your diploma for you — this is often required.
- For diplomas issued before 2003, both the original and a notarized copy must be submitted for legalization.
- Always keep copies of all translated, legalized, and submitted documents for your records.
Some universities may request additional documents to be translated and legalized upon enrollment, such as:
- Tax status certificates from the National Revenue Agency (NRA)
- Bank letters
- Municipal certificates
We offer all these services in one place!
In some cases, the translator’s signature or the document itself must also be certified at the relevant embassy in Bulgaria — something we can also assist with.
Special Offer for Our Clients
Get 10% off the total cost of translation and legalization of your diploma from Bulgarian to a foreign language — valid until the end of July 2025.
Trust the Professionals
To avoid delays, rejections, or unexpected costs, rely on the experience and precision of MiTRa Translations Ltd. We won’t just translate your diploma — we’ll guide you through the entire administrative process.