Translation contract template

This a translation contract template sample that you can use free of charge. You can copy and paste it into Microsoft Word or Google Docs and edit as you like.

Translation Contract

This Translation Contract (the "Contract") is entered into on _________________________ [Date] by and between:

Translation service provider: _________________________ [Translator or Company Name] located at _________________________ [Provider Address] (the "Provider").
Client: _________________________ [Client Name] located at _________________________ [Client Address] (the "Client").

1. Scope of Services

The Provider agrees to provide translation services to the Client as outlined below:

1. Service Description

The Provider shall perform translation services for documents or content provided by the Client, translating from _________________________ [Source Language] to _________________________ [Target Language].

2. Services Included

The translation services shall include but are not limited to:

_________________________ [General document translation]
_________________________ [Certified or notarized translation]
_________________________ [Technical or specialized translation]
_________________________ [Proofreading and editing]
_________________________ [Localization or adaptation of content]
_________________________ [Revisions as agreed upon]
_________________________ [Other translation-related tasks as agreed upon by both parties]

3. Delivery Format and Method

Translations shall be delivered in _________________________ [File Format] via _________________________ [Email/Platform/Delivery Method].

2. Terms of Contract

This Contract shall commence on _________________________ [Start Date] and shall remain in effect until all agreed-upon translation work has been completed, unless terminated earlier as provided herein.
Any additional work requested outside the original scope shall require a written amendment or a new agreement.

3. Payment Terms

The Client agrees to pay the Provider a total sum of $_________________________ [Amount] per _________________________ [Word/Page/Project].
Payment shall be made _________________________ [Payment Method] within _________________________ [Number] days of receipt of invoice.
Late payments shall incur a late fee of _________________________ [Late Fee Amount] for each week the payment is overdue.

4. Revisions

The Client is entitled to _________________________ [Number] revision(s) at no additional cost, provided the requested changes do not alter the original text's meaning or add new content.
Additional revisions beyond the agreed number shall be billed at a rate of $_________________________ [Amount] per hour or per revision.

5. Termination

Either party may terminate this Contract by providing written notice to the other party _________________________ [Number] days prior to the intended termination date.
In the event of termination, the Client shall pay for all completed work and any work in progress up to the termination date.

6. Force Majeure

Neither party shall be liable for any failure or delay in performing their obligations under this Contract if such failure or delay is due to circumstances beyond their reasonable control, including but not limited to acts of God, war, terrorism, civil unrest, government action, fire, flood, or natural disasters.

7. Confidentiality

Both parties agree to maintain the confidentiality of any documents, materials, or sensitive information exchanged during the course of this Contract. The Provider shall not disclose or reproduce any content provided by the Client without written consent.

8. Intellectual Property

Upon full payment, all translated materials become the property of the Client. The Provider retains no rights to the translated content unless otherwise agreed in writing.

9. Governing Law and Jurisdiction

This Contract shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of _________________________ [Your State or Country]. Any disputes arising out of or in connection with this Contract shall be resolved exclusively by the courts of _________________________ [Your State or County].

10. Entire Agreement

This Contract constitutes the entire agreement between the parties and supersedes all prior agreements, understandings, and negotiations, whether written or oral.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Contract as of the date first above written.

Provider
Signature: _________________________ [Signature]
Name and title: _________________________ [Name and Title]
Date: _________________________ [Date]

Client
Signature: _________________________ [Signature]
Name and title: _________________________ [Name]
Date: _________________________ [Date]

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What's a Translation Contract?

A translation contract is a legal agreement between a client and a translation service provider that outlines the terms, responsibilities, and expectations related to translating written or spoken content from one language to another. This type of contract is essential for ensuring accuracy, professionalism, and mutual understanding throughout the translation process. In this article, we'll explore the key components of a translation contract, why it matters, and what both parties should consider before entering into one.

1. Definition and Scope

A translation contract clearly defines the scope of translation services to be provided. This includes the source and target languages, the type of documents or content to be translated, and any additional services required such as proofreading, localization, or certification. The contract should also specify the purpose of the translation—whether it's for legal, academic, business, or personal use.

2. Parties Involved

The agreement identifies the parties involved: the client requesting the translation and the translation service provider or translator performing the work. It includes each party’s contact details and, if applicable, the company name, project manager, or authorized representative. Clear identification helps establish accountability and reduces the chance of miscommunication.

3. Terms and Conditions

Translation contracts outline the core terms and conditions governing the working relationship. This typically includes the pricing structure (per word, per page, or per project), payment terms, delivery timelines, revision policies, and cancellation rules. These terms help protect both sides by defining how the project will be billed, delivered, and handled in case of delays or disputes.

4. Duration and Delivery

The contract specifies the expected duration of the project and deadlines for delivery. It may outline milestones, partial deliveries, or phased submissions for larger projects. Additionally, it can cover turnaround time, format requirements, and the method of delivery—whether via email, shared drive, or a translation management platform.

5. Quality Standards and Responsibilities

Detailed specifications regarding quality expectations play a crucial role. This includes the required accuracy level, subject-matter expertise, tone and style preferences, and guidelines for handling technical terminology. The contract may also specify whether the translator is responsible for conducting research, maintaining glossary consistency, or adhering to industry standards for certified translations.

6. Confidentiality and Data Security

Since translations often involve sensitive or proprietary information, confidentiality clauses are essential. These ensure that both parties protect any documents, data, or personal information exchanged during the project. The agreement may outline how files must be stored, who can access them, and how information should be handled after the project is completed.

7. Legal Compliance

A translation contract should comply with relevant laws and industry regulations. For example, legal or medical translations may need to meet stricter standards or require specific certifications. Compliance clauses help ensure the translation meets official requirements, especially when it’s used for immigration, court proceedings, or regulatory submissions.

Conclusion

Translation contracts provide structure, clarity, and legal protection in any translation project. By outlining expectations, responsibilities, deadlines, and confidentiality requirements, these agreements help prevent misunderstandings and ensure high-quality results. Whether you're a client needing accurate and reliable translations or a translation service provider looking to safeguard your work, understanding the essential elements of a translation contract is crucial for a smooth and successful collaboration.