NAATI certified translation or Thai consular certified translation — choosing the right route for foreign credential evaluation (wes, ece, eca, vetassess)
This page compares the two certification routes used for foreign credential evaluation (wes, ece, eca, vetassess): when each applies, how many layers are involved, which authorities take part, what the translation must look like, and the mistakes that most often send a file back.
| Aspect | NAATI certified translation | Thai consular certified translation |
|---|---|---|
| Accepted by | Australian authorities such as Home Affairs, universities, and professional boards | Thai authorities and countries using the consular or embassy chain |
| Who certifies | A NAATI certified translator, with stamp and statement of accuracy | The Department of Consular Affairs certifies the translation or the translator's signature |
| Delivery format | Digitally signed PDF, or a printed set where the authority requires it | Printed set bearing the legalization stamp |
| Extra steps | Generally no further consular layer for Australian filings | A destination embassy layer may still be required |
| Name spelling | Follows the passport | Must match both the Thai record and the passport |
| Common mistake | Sending incomplete scans, so the certification does not cover the full document | Filing a consular translation where the Australian authority specifically asks for NAATI |
How to choose
- If the destination says NAATI or certified translator, use the NAATI route only.
- If the same document is needed in Thailand and Australia, prepare both sets up front to avoid duplicate work.
Documents to prepare
- High-resolution colour scans of every page, including stamps and signatures
- Passport bio-data page used as the reference spelling for all names
- Confirmation of the file format the Australian authority accepts (digital PDF or hard copy)
- Any earlier translation already lodged, so terminology stays consistent
- Visa subclass, course code, or registration reference the documents support
- Delivery address if a stamped hard copy is also required
Talk to us before you commit to anything
Many clients arrive with one set of documents while the destination expects a different one. We start by asking where you are filing, for what purpose, and by when — then tell you plainly what is required, including the steps you can complete yourself at no extra cost. A team with over 15 years in cross-border documentation is available before you spend time on the wrong route.
- Destination requirements explained in plain language.
- A clear statement of which steps your case needs and which it does not.
- Help sequencing multiple documents across multiple authorities.
Consult us at LINE @THAIL · 092-0170000 · Contact@thailaw-accounting.co.th
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