Most Frequently Asked Questions

ATTENTION: FIT is not a translation agency. It has no positions or internships to offer.

1. What is FIT?

FIT is an international federation of associations and organisations in the field of translation with members in more than 60 countries the world over. FIT represents the moral and material interests of more than 100,000 translators. The word " translator " is used herein in its wider meaning and includes persons who practise translation in all its form, written or spoken, including those specialising in one of the elements of the translation process or in research or education.

FIT is a strictly non-political organisation of professional translators and interpreters. As a non-governmental organisation (NGO), FIT enjoys consultative status with UNESCO and maintains close contact with numerous other international organisations.

2. Can individual translators belong to FIT?

No. FIT is a federation of translators associations. Individuals can join organisations in their home countries. By virtue of belonging to a FIT member association, individuals are entitled to participate in any FIT activity, most notably the FIT world congresses organised every three years.

3. Does FIT suggest rates for translation or interpreting?

No. As different rates apply in different countries, please contact national associations for further information. FIT occasionally conducts surveys or publishes the results of surveys conducted by member associations.

4. Does FIT have an accreditation system?

No. Accreditation is a national issue. Please refer to national organisation for further details.

5. What are FIT's objectives?

FIT's principal objectives are to:

  • bring together associations of translators and to promote interaction and co-operation between such associations;
  • sponsor and facilitate the formation of translators. associations in countries where they do not already exist;
  • establish links with other organisations devoted to translation or other aspects of interlingual and intercultural communication;
  • develop and maintain among all member organisations such harmony and understanding as will promote the interest of translators;
  • provide member organisations with such information and advice as may be useful to them;
  • promote training and research;
  • promote the harmonisation of professional standards;
  • uphold the moral and material interests of translators throughout the world, advocate and advance the recognition of their profession, enhance their status in society and further the knowledge and appreciation of translation as a science and an art.

6. What does FIT offer the individual translator?

FIT offers:

  • The UNESCO Recommendation on the Protection and Improvement of the Legal and Social Status of Translations and Translators, adopted in Nairobi in 1976, is a milestone in the history of FIT. It helps safeguard the rights of individual translators. You will find the text of the Recommendation on the FIT web site
  • Conferences, round tables and congresses
  • Publications
  • Useful information about translators. associations
  • Information about translations studies and the research in the field of translation.
  • The opportunity to serve on specialised committees, and to become part of the FIT network

7. How can I get more information about FIT?

  • Visit FIT's Web site
  • Write to FIT at the following address:
    e-mail: info@fit-ift.org
  • Contact any member of the FIT council.