About the French language.
French is an official language in France, Belgium, Switzerland, Canada and many African countries, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire and Senegal. For South African clients, Francophone Africa and France are usually the closest links. Other Romance languages we translate include Asturian, Brazilian Portuguese, Catalan and Corsican.
We adapt terminology and register to where the translation will be read. Canadian French differs from European French in vocabulary and usage, so tell us your audience.
French usually runs longer than English, which matters for layouts, forms and subtitles. French distinguishes formal and informal address. Business and official documents need the formal register throughout. French legal documents follow civil-law conventions, so legal terms go to linguists who know both systems.
French to English work is usually personal, academic and legal documents from Francophone countries. English to French is usually business, tender and marketing content for companies expanding into French-speaking markets.
Certified French translation is available for embassies, universities and official use, and sworn French translation where a South African authority requires it. Common documents include birth certificates, degree certificates, academic transcripts and police clearance certificates. French interpreting is available on request.
Our French translation services.
Tell us the source and target languages, intended audience and service required. We confirm the available linguist, format and review level for your French project before quoting.
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French document translation
Accurate translation of written materials including contracts, reports, correspondence, and marketing content.
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French website and software localisation
Adapting websites, applications, and digital platforms for French-speaking audiences, including text, interface elements, and supporting content.
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French interpreting
Ask about French interpreting for your meeting, hearing or event. Include the date, location or online platform and preferred interpreting mode so we can check availability.
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French voice-over
Multilingual voice recording for video and audio productions requiring French language delivery.
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French subtitling
Accurate, timed French subtitles for films, corporate videos, e-learning content, and broadcast media.
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French desktop publishing
Formatting and layout services for print and digital materials translated into French, ensuring a professional finished product.
Certified, legal and business French translation.
Certified French translation
For official documents, tell us which institution will receive your French translation and send its written requirements. We assess the language pair and confirm whether the project needs a signed statement of accuracy, a sworn translator or another process. Acceptance is decided by the receiving institution.
Common documents include birth certificates, marriage certificates, degree certificates and police clearance certificates. Requirements differ between courts, embassies, universities and immigration authorities, so tell us where the French translation will be submitted and send any written instructions you have. If an authority asks for a sworn translation, ask us to confirm availability for the language pair.
French legal translation
Legal translation into and from French requires specialist knowledge of legal terminology, document conventions, and the specific requirements of the relevant legal system. Each project is assigned to a linguist with the right language pair and subject expertise, and managed by a named project manager.
- Contracts, agreements, and commercial negotiations
- Court pleadings, motions, and legal filings
- Patent applications and intellectual property documents
- Legal correspondence including letters and emails
- Expert witness reports and legal opinions
- Regulatory filings and licence applications
French government translation
Premium Lingua provides French translation services for government agencies, public sector bodies, and organisations working in regulated or government-related environments. Send the required terminology, document format and confidentiality instructions with your brief so these can be assessed and included in the agreed scope.
Client materials are handled under confidentiality requirements, with access restricted to the people who need them to deliver the service, and our privacy framework is designed around the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).
French business document translation
For businesses operating in or engaging with French-speaking markets, clear and accurate communication is essential. Share previous translations, glossaries or approved terminology before we start, so your French content stays consistent across projects. Our business translation services cover:
- Marketing materials including brochures, adverts, and promotional content
- Financial reports, balance sheets, and income statements
- Company policies, procedures, and internal guidelines
- Business contracts and commercial agreements
- Business correspondence including emails and letters
- Product catalogues, technical specifications, and datasheets
- Human resources documents including job descriptions and employee handbooks
Request your French project quote.
We aim to reply within two business hours, Monday to Friday, South African time. Include your language pair, intended use and deadline so we can assess the scope.
Request received.
A project manager will reply by email or phone, Monday to Friday, 09:00 to 17:00 SAST.