What is the Free Translating Service?
The Free Translating Service (FTS) is a free Australian Government document translation program, delivered by TIS National, for holders of eligible permanent and selected temporary visas who are in Australia. It translates up to 10 eligible personal documents into English within two years of the visa grant.
Detailed description
The Free Translating Service (FTS) is an Australian Government program administered by the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National), which sits within the Department of Home Affairs. It provides eligible individuals with free translation of personal documents into English to support their settlement in Australia.
The service is available to holders of eligible permanent and selected temporary visas who are in Australia, within two years of their visa grant. Australian citizens are not eligible, and it does not cover translations needed for visa or citizenship applications. It covers up to 10 eligible personal documents. Eligible documents can include birth certificates, marriage certificates, divorce decrees, academic qualifications, employment references, and identity documents, translated into English at no cost. Check the Department of Home Affairs for current eligibility.
The FTS exists to remove language barriers that prevent newly arrived migrants from accessing employment, education, and community services. Without translated documents, individuals may struggle to have their qualifications recognised, enrol in education, open bank accounts, or complete essential administrative processes.
It is important to distinguish the Free Translating Service from professional certified translation services. While the FTS provides a valuable entry point for personal document translation, it has specific eligibility criteria, document limitations, and processing timeframes. Organisations and individuals who need ongoing, time-sensitive, or specialised document translation typically require a professional translation provider.
Full details, eligibility criteria, and applications are available on the TIS National website.
Why it matters
For newly arrived migrants, the Free Translating Service is often one of the first government services they access. It plays a critical role in helping people participate in Australian society by ensuring their personal documents are available in English.
For organisations working with CALD communities, understanding the FTS is important because clients and community members may reference it when discussing their translation needs. Knowing the boundaries of the FTS, including what it covers and what it does not, helps organisations guide people toward the right service for their situation.
Related questions about Free Translating Service
Who is eligible for the Free Translating Service?
Holders of eligible permanent and selected temporary visas can use it within two years of their visa grant, as long as the visa is still valid and they are in Australia. It covers up to 10 personal documents. Australian citizens are not eligible, nor are bridging, tourist or working holiday visa holders, and translations needed for visa or citizenship applications are excluded.
How many documents can I get translated for free?
You can get up to 10 eligible personal documents translated for free. If you need a full translation, every five pages counts as one document.
What kind of translation will I receive?
Most documents are translated as extract summaries of up to 100 words. A full translation is available when you provide evidence that one is required.
How long does the Free Translating Service take?
Allow up to 30 calendar days for the Free Translating Service, and there is no rush option. If you need a translation sooner, you can order a NAATI certified translation.
Who runs the Free Translating Service?
TIS National, part of the Department of Home Affairs, has delivered the Free Translating Service since 1 July 2025.
What if there is a mistake in my free translation?
Ask for a correction within 30 days of receiving your translation.
What if I am not eligible?
Order a NAATI certified translation from a translation provider. You will also need one if the translation is for a visa or citizenship application, because the Free Translating Service does not cover those.