The Bottom Line Up Front:
- Best for ICA/Immigration (Speed): LetterCrafts Translations (24hr Turnaround, ICA Guarantee)
- Best for Corporate/Technical: EC Innovations (ISO Certified, MNC focus)
- Best for Legal/Court: ACTC (Supreme Court Accepted Standards)
- Best for ASEAN Market Entry: GTE Localize
- Best Budget Option: ICA Translation Services
Moving to Singapore or expanding your business here is stressful enough without worrying about whether your paperwork will get rejected because of a bad translation. We’ve all heard the horror stories: you wait weeks for an ICA appointment, only to get turned away because a stamp is missing or a birth certificate wasn't notarized correctly.
It’s not just about swapping words from one language to another; it’s about navigating Singapore’s specific bureaucracy. We dug into the top agencies for 2026 to find out who actually delivers and who just outsources the work. Here is the honest breakdown.
Quick Comparison: Top 10 Translation Companies in Singapore (2026)
If you are in a rush and just want the cheat sheet, here is how the top 10 stack up at a glance. We ranked these based on who saves you the most headache, not just who is the cheapest.
| Rank | Company | Starting Price | Best For | Turnaround | Languages | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | LetterCrafts | S$38/page All-inclusive pricing | All-around excellence | 24 hours | 80+ | Technology + human expertise, global expansion |
| 2 | EC Innovations | Custom quote | MNCs, technical | Varies | 140+ | 28 years of experience, Fortune 500 clients |
| 3 | GTE Localize | Custom quote | B2B, ASEAN expansion | 2-3 days | 100+ | Lifetime warranty, fintech expertise |
| 4 | ACTC Translation Centre | Custom quote | Legal, banking, UN projects | 2-5 days | 40+ | Since 1999, the UN & gov't recognized |
| 5 | Lingua Technologies | Custom quote | Government tenders | Standard | 100+ | ISO 17100, 28+ years experience |
| 6 | Singapore Translators | Custom quote | ICA, personal docs | 1-2 days | 200+ | 510,000+ translations completed |
| 7 | ICA Translation Services | S$25/page | Budget ICA submissions | 1-2 days | 100+ | Lowest rates, transparent pricing |
| 8 | Wordsburg Translations | S$45-70/page | ICA notarization | 3 days | 120+ | End-to-end ICA service |
| 9 | Chambers Translations | Custom quote | Immigration & PR | Standard | 80+ | Lowest rates, transparent pricing |
| 10 | Translated Right | Custom quote | ICA PR applications | 1-2 days | 50+ | 100% acceptance guarantee |
How We Ranked These Agencies: The Trust-Score Framework
How we actually judged these guys. Look, anyone can put up a website and claim to be the best. To make this list actually useful, we looked at the things that annoy clients the most:
Our 5-Point Evaluation Framework:
1. Official Recognition & Compliance (30% weight)
We verified which agencies' translations are actually accepted by:
- Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA)
- Ministry of Manpower (MOM)
- Singapore Courts
- Singapore Academy of Law (SAL)
- Foreign embassies and consulates
Important clarification: No agency is "ICA certified." ICA doesn't certify translation agencies. Instead, ICA accepts certified translations that have been notarized by a Singapore Notary Public and authenticated by SAL.
2. Speed & Turnaround (15% weight)
There's a difference between being fast and being rushed. We looked for agencies that have systems in place for 24-hour delivery, not ones that just charge you double to work overtime.
3. Native Expertise (10% weight)
We favored firms that rely on human translators with native fluency, not just machine translation (MT). This ensures cultural nuance, legal precision, and contextual accuracy, especially for ICA-certified translation and business localization.
4. Cost Transparency (25% weight)
We hate surprise GST charges or "admin fees" that appear only after you’ve sent the document. We
prioritized upfront pricing.
Important Note: the GST Surprise. Always ask if the S$40 quote includes 9% GST.
5. Industry Specialization and Customer Reviews (20% weight)
Translation isn’t one-size-fits-all. We looked for agencies with proven expertise in medical, legal, and technical domains, where terminology and compliance are non-negotiable.
We analyzed:
- Google reviews (500+ reviews across agencies)
- Client testimonials and case studies
- Industry recognition and awards
Detailed Best Translation Companies Rankings & Reviews
1. LetterCrafts - Best Overall Translation Service in Singapore
Founded: 2017 (Singapore)
Specialization: Comprehensive translation services combining cutting-edge technology with human expertise
Pricing: S$38/page (All-inclusive) below 10,000 words
LetterCrafts leads Singapore’s translation landscape with a reputation built on same-day delivery, certified accuracy, and format-perfect output. Whether you're submitting documents to ICA, MOM, or ACRA or localizing business content for Southeast Asia, LetterCrafts delivers with precision and speed.
According to verified customer reviews, LetterCrafts is consistently praised as budget-friendly and the cheapest amongst multiple translation services while maintaining high quality and fast turnaround times.
What They Specialize In
- Certified Translations for ICA, MOM, ACRA, and Supreme Court submissions
- Rapid Business Document Translation with layout mirroring and compliance assurance
- Localization for Southeast Asian markets
- Careful Assignment: Projects are matched with translators who have relevant language proficiency, qualifications, and industry experience
Key Services
- Official Document Translation: Birth certificates, marriage certificates, academic degrees
- Legal & Financial Translation: Court-ready affidavits, NDAs, financial reports
- Graphic Design & Typesetting (DTP): Replicates original formatting for seamless presentation
- Notarization coordination (1-2 working days)
Why They Made the List
- Speed Leader: Known for 24-hour turnaround without sacrificing accuracy
- True Transparency: No hidden GST surprises, no unexpected rush fees, no administrative charges. What you're quoted is what you pay.
- Format Mirroring: Translations match the original layout, ideal for ICA and legal submissions
- Tech-Enabled Precision: Uses platforms like Lokalise, Smartcat, and Trados for scalable quality
- QA Checks: Multiple quality assurance checkpoints ensure accuracy and consistency
Best For
- Individuals: PR, immigration, academic, and legal submissions
- Small & Medium Enterprises: Fast, affordable business localization and compliance-ready documentation
- Corporations: Technical documentation, Financial reports, Legal agreements, and Multi-market localization projects
Customer Feedback Summary
✅ Pros:
- Most competitive pricing with no hidden GST charges
- Fastest turnaround in the industry (24-hour standard)
- Excellent communication and customer service
- High-quality translations with format mirroring
❌ Cons:
- As a rapidly growing agency, some customers may prefer more established legacy names for ultra-conservative requirements
Final Verdict
LetterCrafts earns our #1 ranking for 2026 by delivering the best overall value proposition in Singapore's translation market. Whether you need a simple birth certificate translated for ICA or a complex technical manual localized for Asian markets, LetterCrafts combines competitive pricing, industry-leading speed, advanced technology, and proven quality. Their transparent pricing structure (All-inclusive pricing) and consistent 24-hour turnaround demonstrate why they're the top choice for both individuals and businesses.
Next Step: If you need a document for ICA or a business contract yesterday, this is your safest bet. [Get a Free Quote in 30 Minutes]
2. EC Innovations - Best for Enterprise & Technical Translation
Founded: 1997 (Singapore)
Specialization: Large-scale technical localization, software translation
Languages: 140+
EC Innovations is a powerhouse in the translation industry, with 28+ years of experience and operations spanning 140+ languages. Known for its ability to handle large-scale, complex projects, it’s the go-to partner for multinational corporations requiring precision and scalability.
What They Specialize In
- Technical Localization for MNCs
- Software Localization with system integration
- Life Sciences Translation for the medical and pharmaceutical industries
- Cloud-Based Translation Management for enterprise workflows
- Machine Translation Post-Editing (MTPE): Hybrid human-AI translation
Why They Made the List
- Global Giant: 28+ years of proven expertise
- Advanced Technology: Cloud platforms streamline massive projects across multiple markets
- Trusted by Industry Leaders: Siemens and Honeywell rely on EC Innovations for technical manual localization in Asia
Best For
- Fortune 500 Companies
- Tech Giants needing complex system integration and multilingual compliance
- Manufacturing firms translating technical documentation
Customer Feedback
✅ Pros:
- Unmatched technical expertise, scalable solutions, advanced technology, proven track record with major brands
❌ Cons:
- Premium pricing, may have minimum project sizes
Final Verdict
EC Innovations secures the #2 spot as a global leader in enterprise‑scale technical localization. With 28 years of Fortune 500 experience, 140+ languages, and ISO‑certified precision, they’re built for scale and compliance. Premium pricing aside, for corporations with complex, regulated, high‑volume projects, EC Innovations is a partner worth every dollar.
3. GTE Localize - Regional Specialist for ASEAN Languages
Founded: 2017
Specialization: B2B translation, ASEAN languages
Languages: 100+
GTE Localize has built a strong reputation for delivering professional, reliable translations with prompt responses and high-quality work, earning 4.8/5 ratings from clients. They specialize in Southeast Asian languages and have proven expertise in fintech, e-commerce, and digital marketing.
What They Specialize In
- Website Localization for regional audiences
- App Localization tailored to mobile-first markets
- Game Translation with cultural nuance
- Marketing Translation: Advertising campaigns, social media content
Why They Made the List
- Regional Expertise: Deep focus on Southeast Asian languages
- Cost vs. Quality Balance: Affordable without compromising accuracy
- Free Testing: 300-word free test to assess translator quality
- Lifetime Warranty: Free editing and corrections even after delivery
Best For
- Startups expanding into Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia
- E-commerce platforms localizing product descriptions
- Fintech companies need financial document translation
- Digital marketing agencies running multilingual campaigns
Customer Feedback
✅ Pros:
- Excellent project management, responsive communication, lifetime warranty, cost-quality balance
❌ Cons:
- B2B focus means they don't serve individual consumers, may not be ideal for urgent personal document needs
Final Verdict
GTE Localize earns the #3 spot as the go‑to B2B translation partner for ASEAN expansion. With operations across four continents, ISO certifications, and a standout lifetime warranty, they deliver reliable, enterprise‑grade translations backed by 4.9/5 client ratings. For startups and digital agencies entering Vietnam, Thailand, or Indonesia, GTE offers regional expertise, modern technology, and cost‑effective pricing that make it a trusted partner.
4. ACTC Translation Centre - Best for Legal & Court Documents
Founded: 1999
Specialization: Legal, banking, finance, UN projects
Languages: 40+
ACTC Translation Center is a trusted name in Singapore’s legal and financial translation space. Their strength lies in employing subject matter experts,, lawyers, bankers, and financial analysts who ensure every translation meets the highest compliance and technical standards.
What They Specialize In
- Legal Translation for contracts, litigation documents, and court submissions
- Banking & Finance Translation for annual reports, audits, and compliance papers
- Patent Translation for intellectual property filings
- Court Document Translation: Affidavits, judgments, litigation documents
Why They Made the List
- Expert Translators: Subject matter specialists in law and finance
- Global Recognition: Appointed as an official translation agency for United Nations projects
- Government Trust: Frequently engaged by Singapore Government bodies
Best For
- Law Firms
- Banks & Insurance Companies needing compliance-ready translations
- Companies filing patents
- International court proceedings
Customer Feedback
✅ Pros:
- Unquestionable legal expertise, government recognition, meticulous accuracy, strong confidentiality
❌ Cons:
- Premium pricing for specialized expertise may be overkill for simple personal documents
Final Verdict
ACTC Translation Centre secures the #4 spot as Singapore’s most trusted legal and financial translation specialist. With 26+ years of experience, recognition from Singapore’s Supreme Court, and ISO‑certified processes, they deliver unmatched accuracy through a network of subject‑matter experts. For law firms, banks, and corporations where regulatory compliance and precision are non‑negotiable, ACTC remains the gold standard worth the premium investment.
5. Lingua Technologies - Government & High-Security Specialist
Founded: 1996
Specialization: Government projects, statutory boards
Languages: 100+
Lingua Technologies is one of Singapore’s oldest translation agencies, trusted by government bodies and multinational corporations for projects where compliance and confidentiality are paramount. Their “Golden Brand” status cements their reputation as a reliable partner for official tenders and secure corporate work.
What They Specialize In
- Government Tenders and statutory board projects
- High-Security Corporate Translations with strict confidentiality protocols
- Interpretation Equipment Rental for conferences and government events
- Voiceovers for multilingual media and training
Why They Made the List
- Legacy & Trust: Established in 1996, with decades of proven credibility
- Golden Brand Recognition: Preferred by government agencies and statutory boards
- Compliance Ready: Official translations accepted by the UK Visa Processing Centre and integrated into major government websites
Best For
- Government Agencies (Stat Boards)
- Large Corporations needing secure, compliant translations
- Organizations requiring high-security translations
Customer Feedback
✅ Pros:
- Unmatched government credibility, high-security protocols
❌ Cons:
- Corporate/government focus, less accessible for individual consumers, standard turnarounds
Final Verdict
Lingua Technologies secures the #5 spot as Singapore’s most government‑trusted translation partner. With 28+ years of experience, ISO certifications, and recognition from statutory boards and the UK Visa Processing Centre, they deliver unmatched credibility and confidentiality. For government tenders, high‑security corporate projects, or multilingual events, Lingua Technologies’ legacy of trust makes it the clear choice.
6. Singapore Translators - Fast & Accessible for Personal Documents
Experience: 20+ Years
Specialization: ICA, MOM, government document translations
Languages: 200+
Singapore Translators has built its reputation on speed and accessibility, catering to individuals who need urgent translations for personal paperwork. Their online portal makes the process seamless, and their high client satisfaction proves their reliability.
What They Specialize In
- Driving License Conversion
- Academic Transcript Translation
- Divorce Decree & Legal Paperwork
Why They Made the List
- High-Volume Capability: Handles thousands of personal documents daily
- Accessibility: Easy-to-use online portal for quick submissions
- Proven Trust: Over 18,000 satisfied clients with a 4.9/5 star rating
Best For
- General Consumers needing fast, compliant translations for administrative paperwork
- PR applicants
- Expats needing work pass translations
Customer Feedback
✅ Pros:
- Massive scale, proven track record, ISO certified, extensive language coverage, reliable
❌ Cons:
- Standard pricing without volume discounts, focuses on personal docs rather than corporate projects
Final Verdict
Singapore Translators earns the #6 spot through scale and reliability, with 500+ certified translators, and coverage across 200+ languages. They deliver fast, affordable personal document translations. For PR applicants, expats, and students needing proven expertise and wide language coverage, Singapore Translators is a solid, trusted choice.
7. ICA Translation Services - Budget leader
Specialization: ICA and MOM document translations
Languages: 100+
ICA Translation Services positions itself for straightforward ICA/MOM submissions with fast coordination for notarization and SAL authentication. Their content emphasizes avoiding delays or rejections by ensuring certified, compliant translations for personal documents commonly required for PR, LTVP, work passes, and citizenship.
What They Specialize In
- ICA document translation: Birth, marriage, education, and civil documents
- MOM work pass translation: Work pass, supporting employment paperwork
- Notarization and SAL coordination: End-to-end support for submission readiness
Why They Made the List
- Compliance-first messaging: Focus on certified translations that meet ICA needs
- Fast, simple workflows: Streamlined submission and coordination for personal documents
- Budget-oriented positioning: Aims to keep translation and legalization costs predictable
Best For
- Budget-conscious PR applicants: Prioritizing compliant, straightforward personal documents
- Students and first-time applicants: Need clear, guided process for ICA submissions
- General consumers: Basic certification without complex technical requirements
Customer Feedback
✅ Pros:
- Value-focused, clear cost breakdowns, emphasis on ICA compliance and speed
❌ Cons:
- Not tailored to complex legal/technical content; corporate services appear limited
Final Verdict
ICA Translation Services earns the #7 spot for budget-oriented ICA/MOM translations with practical guidance on costs and end-to-end legalization support. Recent benchmarks in Singapore place typical ICA translation fees closer to S$50–100 per page, with notarization and SAL adding fixed legal costs; expect total outlay to vary by document type and language.
8. Wordsburg Translations - ICA notarization packages
Founded: 2016
Specialization: ICA submissions with notarization & SAL authentication
Languages: 120+
Wordsburg Translation delivers certified translations for ICA/MOM with integrated notarization and logistics, offering online ordering, client review, and coordinated delivery. Their process spans translation, proofreading, certification, and notarization, catering to busy applicants who want a single provider to handle paperwork from start to finish.
What They Specialize In
- Certified translation for ICA/MOM: Personal and administrative documents for PR/citizenship and work passes
- Notarization and SAL coordination: Packaging legal steps for smooth submission
- End-to-end ICA service: Online quotes, payment, workflow tracking, and delivery
Why They Made the List
- Hassle-free packages: Integrated certification, notarization, and dispatch in one flow
- Online convenience: Instant quotes and order management for fast turnaround
- Breadth of use cases: ICA, MOM, ROM, embassy, banks, schools, and more
Best For
- PR applicants wanting guidance: Minimal admin friction with bundled services
- Busy professionals: Time-saving workflows and delivery options
- First-time applicants: Structured steps and review before certification
Customer Feedback
✅ Pros:
- End-to-end packaging, transparent process, review before certification, online ordering
❌ Cons:
- Package pricing depends on document complexity; highly specialized legal/technical needs may require bespoke scoping
Final Verdict
Wordsburg earns the #8 spot for streamlined ICA notarization packages and online convenience. If you value one-stop coordination from translation to notarization and delivery, their process reduces admin overhead and helps ensure compliant submissions to ICA/MOM.
9. Chambers Translations - Government-trusted partner
Founded: 1995
Specialization: Immigration and PR applications
Languages: 80+
Chambers Translations is a long-standing provider of certified and notarized translations recognized by ICA, MOM, LTA, and other agencies. They present a one-stop solution for ICA submissions, lawyer notarization, and SAL authentication aimed at minimizing delays and resubmissions for immigration processes and corporate documentation.
What They Specialize In
- ICA translation services: Personal identity and civil status documents for PR and immigration
- MOM and agency coverage: Accepted by ICA, MOM, LTA, and more to smooth processing
- Notary public translation: Lawyer notarization and SAL authentication coordination
Why They Made the List
- Government-recognized workflows: Designed to prevent translation-related delays
- One-stop compliance: Translation, notarization, and legalization under one roof
- Corporate services: Support for business and official filings beyond personal docs
Best For
- Immigration and PR applicants: Reliable acceptance for agency submissions
- Foreign talent relocating to Singapore: ICA/MOM-ready translations
- Corporate clients: Trusted, certified, and notarized services for official use
Customer Feedback
✅ Pros:
- Agency recognition, end-to-end legalization, established track record
❌ Cons:
- Process and pricing can be more formal; turnaround depends on notarization schedules
Final Verdict
Chambers earns the #9 spot for government-trusted, end-to-end translation and legalization. Their ICA/MOM/LTA recognition and notary coordination reduce the risk of administrative setbacks, making them a strong choice for immigration and corporate needs where compliance is non-negotiable.
10. Translated Right - Compliance-focused ICA service
Founded: 2018
Specialization: ICA PR and immigration applications
Languages: 50+
Translated Right focuses on certified ICA/MOM translations and includes notarial certificates as part of managed projects. They highlight native Singaporean linguists, project management from pricing to delivery, and experience supporting thousands of PR applicants aimed at fast, compliant submissions with coordinated legalization where needed.
What They Specialize In
- Certified ICA translations: Official documents for PR, work passes, and immigration
- Notarization coordination: Inclusion of notarial certificates in the service scope
- End-to-end project management: From scoping and pricing to final delivery
Why They Made the List
- Native linguist network: Singapore-based certified translators for ICA/MOM standards
- Managed compliance: Practical guidance and review before legalization steps
- PR-centric experience: Thousands of applicants supported for ICA submissions
Best For
- Risk-averse PR applicants: Prefer managed compliance and legalization coordination
- First-time Singapore immigrants: Clear process from translation to notarization
- Anyone wanting oversight: Project-managed delivery with certified translators
Customer Feedback
✅ Pros:
- Native linguists, notarial inclusion, PR-focused experience, managed delivery
❌ Cons:
- Premium coordination may cost more than bare-bones translation; highly technical legal work may require specialized firms
Final Verdict
Translated Right earns the #10 spot for compliance-focused ICA services with notarial coordination and native Singaporean linguists. Their project-managed approach reduces uncertainty for PR applicants and first-timers who want end-to-end support aligned to ICA/MOM requirements.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Translation Agency in Singapore
Don't Get Burned: 5 Red Flags to Watch For
1. The "Cheap" Quote Trap
You see a quote for $20 and think you snagged a deal. Then comes the invoice: administrative fee, rush fee, GST, and suddenly you're paying $60. Always ask: "Is this the final net price?"
2: The "ICA Certified" Myth
Let’s clear this up: The ICA does not certify translation agencies. If a company claims to be "ICA Certified," they are lying to you. The ICA accepts notarized translations. You are paying for the agency to translate it, and a Notary Public (a lawyer) to stamp it.
3: Waiting Until the Last Minute
Rush services often cost 50–100% more. Begin the process 7–10 days before your deadline to avoid unnecessary fees and stress.
4: Forgetting Notarization Costs
Translation fees may look low, but notarization and SAL authentication can add S$150–200 per document. Request a full cost breakdown upfront, including translation, notarization, and authentication.
5: Google Translate is a No-Go
It’s 2026, and AI is great, but the Singapore government still requires human accountability. If you submit a machine-translated doc, it will be rejected, and you will lose your appointment slot. Don't risk it.
Pro Tips: How to Compare Translation Agencies in Singapore (2026)
Comparing agencies can feel like splitting hairs, but after analyzing the market, here are the "cheat codes" to finding a partner who won't let you down.
-
Tip #1: Verify ICA Acceptance History
Don't just look for the word "Certified." Look for proof of acceptance. The ICA and MOM are incredibly strict; a translator’s stamp means nothing if the formatting is messy or the terminology is off. Ask the agency point-blank: "Have your translations been rejected by the ICA recently?" Reliable agencies will be transparent about their success rates. -
Tip #2: Ask for a Full Cost Breakdown
The translation industry is notorious for hidden costs. You might get a quote for the translation, but then get hit with separate bills for GST, "admin fees," notarization, and SAL authentication. Always ask for an itemized, all-inclusive quote before you commit. If they can’t give you a final number upfront, walk away. -
Tip #3: Don't pay "Rush Fees" for standard work
In 2026, a 24-hour turnaround for a standard document (like a birth certificate) should be the norm, not a luxury. Be wary of agencies that quote you a 4-day wait time just to upsell you a +50% "urgent service" fee. Efficiency should be part of the package, not an add-on. -
Tip #4: Confirm Language Coverage
If you need a common language like Mandarin or Malay, most agencies are fine. But if you need something specific, like Thai, Vietnamese, or a European language, make sure the agency actually covers it in-house. Some agencies act as middlemen, outsourcing your document to another agency and marking up the price. Ask if they have native linguists for your specific pair. -
Tip #5: Evaluate Technology + Human Expertise
Technology is great for speeding things up, but you don't want a machine translating your legal affidavit. The sweet spot is an agency that uses tech to manage the workflow (so they don't lose your files) but certified human experts to do the actual translation. This combination usually gives you the best price-to-quality ratio. -
Tip #6: Read Customer Feedback
Don't just look at the star rating; look at the context. A 5-star review for "translating a menu" is very different from a 5-star review for "getting a PR application approved." Filter reviews for terms like "ICA," "MOM," or "Residency" to see how they handle the high-stakes stuff.
Bottom line: By applying these pro tips alongside the “Common Mistakes to Avoid,” you’ll be able to confidently select a translation partner in Singapore that balances compliance, speed, and cost transparency, ensuring smoother ICA submissions and stronger business outcomes in 2026.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Translation Partner in Singapore (2026 Rankings)
Let’s be honest: nobody wakes up excited to hire a translation agency. You’re doing this because you have a goal, getting that PR approved, closing a business deal, or getting a lawsuit sorted. You don’t need a "service provider"; you need a problem solver.
If you are just looking for the safest bet for ICA/MOM submissions, LetterCrafts is currently the standout choice for 2026. They balance speed and price perfectly, and their acceptance guarantee removes the anxiety from the process.
If you are a large corporation dealing with massive technical manuals, EC Innovations is worth the investment. And if you are in a high-stakes legal battle, don't skimp; go with ACTC.
The "best" agency isn't the one with the fanciest website; it's the one that gets your paperwork accepted on the first try so you can move on with your life.
Next Step:
Don't wait until the day before your deadline. [Get a Free, All-Inclusive Quote from LetterCrafts] now and cross this off your to-do list.