When Clients Ask for Name Changes in Translations: Navigating the Fine Line Between Accuracy and Preference

One of the most delicate issues I often encounter as a certified translator is clients asking me to translate or modify their names when translating official documents. For example, a client named Georgios in Greek might request that I translate his name as George in English. At first glance, this seems harmless — after all, George is the English equivalent of Georgios. However, the situation is more complex, particularly when it comes to certified translations and legal documents.

When translating official documents (such as vital records, passports, diplomas, court documents, etc.), I am required to use the name exactly as it appears on the original document. This ensures that your translation matches the source document, including your legal name, and avoids any confusion or legal issues when the translation is submitted to authorities. 

If your legal name was changed after moving to the United States, your name must still be translated into English exactly as it appears on the original Greek document. In addition to the document and its translation, authorities typically require that you provide the official name change document confirming your legal name change when submitting your paperwork.

Greek Immigrants and Name Changes in the US

When many Greek immigrants arrived in the United States between the 30s and the 80s, it was common for their names to be changed at ports of entry or by themselves later on.

For instance, a man named Dimitris might have been recorded under, or chosen to adopt, the name Peter in the United States, even though the two names are not direct equivalents. In such cases, the Anglicized name was not a strict linguistic translation but rather a chosen or assigned name that English speakers found easier to pronounce or remember.

This historical practice means that many Greek Americans today have official documents with names that differ significantly from their original Greek ones. 

As a professional translator, my job is to produce translations that are accurate and faithful. When it comes to names on official documents, this means that the name has to be translated exactly as it appears on a client’s original documents. Changing or adapting it, even if it seems like a harmless difference, can cause serious issues, such as:

• Delays or complications in legal processes.

• Confusion about your identity in official records.

By adhering to the original spelling of your legal name, I am safeguarding your best interests and ensuring that your documents will be accepted without any issues. While you are, of course, free to use a different or Anglicized name in social or professional contexts, certified translations must be consistent with your legal identity. This approach guarantees both accuracy and compliance with the requirements of the authorities reviewing your documents.