About the Scots language.
Scots is spoken across the Scottish Lowlands, in the north-east, where it is called Doric, around Aberdeen, in Orkney and Shetland, and as Ulster Scots in Northern Ireland. It is a Germanic language that grew from the same roots as English, and the United Kingdom recognises it under the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages. Whether Scots is a language or a dialect of English is debated. Other Germanic languages we translate include Afrikaans, Danish, Dutch and English.
Scots has no single official spelling, and its regional forms differ in vocabulary and pronunciation. Tell us where your readers are and we will follow their form. Scots is not Scottish Gaelic, a Celtic language with its own page.
Scottish and Northern Irish official documents are issued in English. Scots work is usually cultural, education and public material, literature and research, and marketing.
We translate in both directions, including Scots into English. A certified translation is available for these. If an authority asks for a sworn translation, ask us to confirm availability for the language pair.
Our Scots 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 Scots project before quoting.
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Scots document translation
Accurate translation of written materials including contracts, reports, correspondence, and marketing content.
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Scots website and software localisation
Adapting websites, applications, and digital platforms for Scots-speaking audiences, including text, interface elements, and supporting content.
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Scots interpreting
Ask about Scots 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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Scots voice-over
Multilingual voice recording for video and audio productions requiring Scots language delivery.
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Scots subtitling
Accurate, timed Scots subtitles for films, corporate videos, e-learning content, and broadcast media.
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Scots desktop publishing
Formatting and layout services for print and digital materials translated into Scots, ensuring a professional finished product.
Certified, legal and business Scots translation.
Certified Scots translation
For official documents, tell us which institution will receive your Scots 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 Scots 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.
Scots legal translation
Legal translation into and from Scots 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
Scots government translation
Premium Lingua provides Scots 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).
Scots business document translation
For businesses operating in or engaging with Scots-speaking markets, clear and accurate communication is essential. Share previous translations, glossaries or approved terminology before we start, so your Scots 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 Scots 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.