My flight leaves today and Immigration asked me for a translated document… what do I do?

You land in Australia after a very long flight.You’re tired, but excited.You reach immigration, hand over your passport…and the officer asks you a simple, calm question:

“Do you have this document translated into English?”

And for a second, everything freezes.

First, let’s clarify something very important from the start:

👉 Yes, this situation can happen.👉 It is not common.👉 It does not mean automatic refusal.

This blog is not meant to scare you, but to inform you honestly.

Is it really possible for Immigration to ask for translated documents on arrival?

Yes. It is legal and possible, but uncommon.

Australian immigration authorities have the power to request additional documentation if they need to verify information related to your entry into the country or the conditions of your visa.

Most people will never experience this.But for some, it does happen — and almost always unexpectedly.

In what real situations can this occur?

Generally, only if the officer needs to confirm something specific, for example if:

• You are travelling with a partner or children

• Your visa has specific conditions

• There are differences between what was declared and what appears in the system

• They need to verify:

  • marital status

  • family relationship

  • background checks

  • work experience

Key point:📌 If the document is in Spanish (or any language other than English), they may request it in English.

Do they accept “regular” translations? No.

When an Australian authority requests a translated document for official purposes, the accepted standard is a NAATI-certified translation.

This applies to:

• Immigration

• Universities

• Employers

• Government bodies

It’s not a whim or an exaggeration — it’s how the Australian system works.

Something very important that almost no one explains

When this happens:

❌ It is not an immediate refusal❌ It does not mean you did something wrong❌ It is not common

In most cases:

• the officer remains calm

• explains what is needed

• accepts the document in digital format

• gives you time to send it

The problem isn’t being asked for the document.The problem is not knowing this can happen.

The mistake that can actually cause delays

When stress kicks in, many people:

• use automatic or unofficial translations

• downplay the request

• say “I’ll send it later” without proper support

That’s when unnecessary delays can arise.

👉 In Australia, if a translation is requested, it must be valid.

So… what should you do before travelling?

Without fear — but with awareness:

✔ keep important documents scanned✔ have them ready in case translation is needed✔ save the contact details of a NAATI translation service✔ understand that it’s unlikely, but possible

Preparing yourself is not paranoia — it’s being proactive.

Let’s summarise clearly and honestly:

✔ Yes, it can happen✔ It’s not common✔ It’s legal✔ There is a solution✔ It does not mean refusal

Talking about this isn’t about creating anxiety, but about avoiding unnecessary panic if it ever happens.

Migrating is already intense enough without unexpected surprises no one warned you about.

✨ Being informed is also part of the journey.

At Entrelingo, we know these situations don’t come with warnings — and when they happen, time is everything.That’s why we offer our NAATI Standard Translation in 24 Hours, designed for real-life situations such as travel, migration, study, or work in Australia.

Our translations are 100% NAATI-certified, accepted by Immigration, universities, and Australian government authorities, and delivered digitally, ready to use.If you need a fast, valid, and stress-free solution, click here. This service can make the difference between a night of anxiety and a problem solved on time.

👉 Book your free consultation today to help you reach your migration goals in Australia. Click here to reserve your free consultation.

If you’d like to connect with other migrant professionals and get support in your migration journey, we invite you to join our Latino Professionals in Australia community. Share your experiences, resolve doubts, and find support as you move forward toward permanent residency in Australia.

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