How Much Does Business License Translation Cost in Shanghai?

For companies expanding internationally, business license translation is essential for foreign company registration, international bidding, cross-border e-commerce, foreign investment, and bank account opening. Many businesses in Shanghai often ask: How much does it cost to translate a business license?

The truth is, there is no fixed price for business license translation, as the cost depends on several factors, including language pair, translation quality, certification requirements, and turnaround time. If you're looking for a cost-effective and officially accepted translation, here’s what you need to know.

Key Factors That Affect Business License Translation Costs

1. Language Pair (Translation Language)

The cost of translation varies depending on the target language. Some language pairs are more common, while others require specialized translators, which affects pricing:

• Chinese ⇄ English: The most frequently requested and generally more affordable option.
• Chinese ⇄ Japanese/Korean/German/French: Prices may be slightly higher due to terminology complexity.
• Chinese ⇄ Less Common Languages (Arabic, Russian, Spanish, etc.): Fewer professional translators are available, making these translations more expensive.

2. Standard vs. Certified Translation

If the translation is for internal use, a standard translation is sufficient. However, for official submissions, certified translation is required, affecting the overall cost:

• Standard Translation: Suitable for internal reference, usually more affordable.
• Certified Translation (Stamped): Required for bank account opening, business registration, international trade, and more. The translation must include an official certification stamp from a recognized translation agency, which increases the cost.
• Notarized Translation: Some countries (such as Germany and France) require notarization, which involves an additional fee but is necessary for legal and government purposes.

3. Turnaround Time (Standard vs. Urgent)

• Standard Delivery: Typically 1-2 business days, suitable for most applications.
• Urgent Translation: If you need the translation on the same day or within 24 hours, an additional rush fee may apply, ideal for time-sensitive business matters.

4. Quality & Formatting Requirements

A business license contains critical information such as company name, registration number, legal representative, and business scope. The translation must be accurate and formatted correctly to meet the standards of government offices and financial institutions. Low-cost services may use machine translation with minimal proofreading, leading to potential errors that cause delays or legal issues.

How to Choose a Reliable Business License Translation Service in Shanghai?

When selecting a translation provider, keep the following in mind:

✅ Does the service include certification? Many official institutions (banks, government agencies, customs, etc.) require certified translations with an official stamp.

✅ Does the company have experience? Choose a provider with expertise in business, legal, and financial translations to ensure accuracy and compliance with regulations.

✅ Is urgent service available? Some cross-border business applications require fast processing, so selecting a company with expedited options can be beneficial.

✅ Is the pricing transparent? Some providers may offer low initial prices but charge extra for certification and urgent delivery. A reputable agency should provide clear and upfront pricing without hidden fees.

Why Choose Arrow Translation for Business License Translation?