Freelance document translator working from home

Small businesses, translation agencies, solicitors, and individuals needing documents translated for work, study or immigration.

Usually a rate per word or per page, with a minimum fee for short jobs. Specialist subjects such as legal or medical work can usually be priced higher.

• Fluent in English and at least one other language
• Careful writing and proofreading
• Reliable with deadlines
• Knowledge of a specialist subject helps

• Professional indemnity insurance, check whether you need it for the work you take on
• Confidential documents, use a clear confidentiality agreement and keep files secure
• Data protection rules when handling personal information, check what applies to you
• Certified translations for official use have specific requirements, check what the receiving body asks for
• Agency work can pay slowly, agree payment terms in writing

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £100 to £1,000, depending on the software, reference materials, website and insurance you choose. Check whether you need professional indemnity insurance for the work you take on.

Monthly revenue is typically around £300 to £3,000 in our estimates, depending on your languages, specialist subject, rates and how many hours you work. Around five hours a week is a possible starting point.

Check whether you need professional indemnity insurance, use a clear confidentiality agreement, keep files secure, and check which data protection rules apply. For certified translations, check what the receiving body asks for, and agree payment terms in writing.