What is NAATI? NAATI Credentials Explained

What is NAATI?

NAATI  is an acronym for “National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters.” It was established in 1977 and is the official body responsible for setting and maintaining the standards for translators and interpreters in Australia through certification tests and recognitions.

Translators who pass NAATI certification exams are qualified to provide translation services for government agencies, immigration authorities, court purposes, and other official uses. 

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What are NAATI’s main functions?

NAATI’s main role is to ensure that translators and interpreters in Australia meet the highest quality standards, so their translations are valid for official use. It does this by assessing professionals through certification tests on their language proficiency, translation accuracy, and professionalism. Only those who meet these standards are licensed to provide translations for use in Australia. 

In addition to setting high standards for translators, NAATI develops the framework for language services used across the country. These frameworks define the ethical responsibilities of translators and interpreters. 

Finally, the organisation keeps a public directory of certified translators and interpreters. This allows individuals and businesses to easily find NAATI-certified translators and interpreters when needed. 

Why is NAATI certification important in Australia?

NAATI certification is important because it provides an assurance of quality. It confirms that the translator has undergone a certification and competency test and follows professional ethical standards. 

Also, Australia requires that documents submitted for formal applications that are not in English must be translated by a NAATI-Accredited translator before they can be used. Without this certification, applications can be delayed or rejected because they don’t meet official standards.

Types of NAATI credentials

NAATI credentials are professional certifications given to translators or interpreters who meet Australia’s national standards for language services. They show that the translator has the skills and training required to handle official document translations. 

NAATI offers different credentials for translators and interpreters, depending on their qualifications and the level at which they work. 

Translator credentials

NAATI offers two main translator credentials. They are; 

Certified Translator

NAATI awards this credential to translators who pass a formal assessment. It confirms the translator has been tested on accuracy, language proficiency, and professional practice. You’ll most likely work with a NAATI-Certified translator for most official document translations in Australia. 

Recognised Practising Translator

This credential is usually granted based on proven work experience rather than a formal test. It is often used for languages where certification testing is not available. While still recognised, it follows a work-based pathway rather than a test-based one.

Interpreter credentials

NAATI also provides several interpreter credentials that reflect the different professional stages. These include; 

1. Certified Provisional Interpreter (CPI)
This is the entry-level certification. It confirms the interpreter has basic professional interpretation skills and can work in general community settings.

2. Certified Interpreter (CI)
This is the standard professional level. It shows the interpreter can handle more complex communication and is suitable for most official assignments.

3. Certified Specialist Interpreter
These interpreters have advanced expertise in specific fields such as legal or health settings, where accuracy and technical knowledge are critical.

4. Certified Conference Interpreter
This is the highest level, designed for interpreters working at international conferences, in diplomacy, or at high-level professional events.

Old vs new NAATI system

NAATI updated its credential framework in 2018. The current system replaced the older Level 2 to Level 5 accreditation structure. This update was introduced to accurately reflect real-world competencies and to align Australian standards with international best practice.

NAATI certification vs NAATI recognition

NAATI certification and NAATI recognition both confirm that a translator or interpreter can work professionally in Australia. But they have different ways for assessing competency. 

Here’s how they differ;

How to apply for the NAATI certification test

To apply for a NAATI certification test, here are the steps to follow;

Step 1: Check eligibility requirements

Make sure you meet the requirements for the credential you're applying for. In some cases, you may need to undergo training in translation or interpreting, show strong proficiency in English and other languages, or provide evidence of relevant qualifications. 

Step 2: Create an online NAATI account

Next, visit the NAATI website to create an account by adding your full name, date of birth, contact details, etc. You’ll need to complete your profile before beginning your application. 

Step 3: Submit your application and documents

You’ll need to upload certain documents, such as identification documents, qualification certificates, training records, etc. 

Step 4: Application processing

Once done, NAATI will start the application process, and you’ll be notified via email once your application is approved. If approved, you’ll be invited to take a test. Select a test date and pay the fees. 

Step 5: Take the NAATI assessment

The assessment is NAATI’s way of testing your level of competence for professional language translation and interpretation. So it’s important that you prepare well. If you fail the test, you cannot legally provide translation services in Australia. 

What is the cost of applying for the test?

The cost of NAATI certification varies depending on the credential you apply for. Each test has its own cost, and the fees are charged per attempt. 

Here’s a breakdown of the current cost valid from 1 July 2025 until 30 June 2026. 

Please note that these fees cover only the certification assessment. Always confirm the current price from the official NAATI website before submitting your application.

NAATI certification, recertification, and validity

NAATI’s certification is valid for three years from the issue date. To continuously provide valid translation services, you must apply for recertification before the expiry date. 

To recertify, you must show that you are still working as a translator or interpreter and have continued to maintain your skills. You may also need to complete relevant professional development training. 

These requirements ensure that NAATI-certified professionals remain competent and up to date with international best practices.

When do you need NAATI-certified translations?

You need NAATI-certified translations whenever Australian authorities need to verify information from your documents that are not in English. Here are common scenarios when you’ll need a NAATI translation;

Immigration and visa applications

The Department of Home Affairs requires NAATI-certified translators for any supporting documents that are not in English. This includes birth certificates, marriage or divorce certificates, driver’s license, police clearance certificates, academic documents, and more. 

Court and legal submissions

Courts and legal institutions in Australia require NAATI-certified translations when foreign language documents will be used as evidence or part of legal proceedings. This may include documents such as contracts, witness statements, and other legal records. 

University admissions and education purposes

Universities and educational institutions in Australia require NAATI-certified translations for academic documents such as transcripts, diplomas, degree certificates, and more. This helps the institution verify the information on the document. 

Read more: How Much Does Translation Cost in Australia?