FAQ

What is the European Language Industry Association (Elia)?

Elia is the European not-for-profit trade association of language service companies with a mission to accelerate our members’ business success.

We are committed to creating events and initiatives that are highly relevant to the needs and interests of language companies with a European business focus, and in the process providing wider benefits to the language industry as a whole.

What is the legal status of Elia?

Elia is an international not-for-profit association registered in Belgium, enterprise no. 0670681754. Our Royal Decree was received on 18 December 2016. The registered seat is located at Rue Washington 40, 1050 Brussels, Belgium. .

What is the difference between Elia and my national association of translation companies and/or the EUATC?

Elia is the only European association that brings together language service companies from across Europe and around the world with the opportunity to communicate directly with each other rather than through a national association.

What is the European Union of Associations of Translation Companies (EUATC)?

The purpose of the EUATC is to unite the Associations of Translation Companies and to promote interaction and co-operation between these Associations, as well as protecting and encouraging the promotion of the translation and interpreting industry in all countries. It was established in 1994 and its members are national associations of translation companies. Source: EUATC website

If my company is a member of a national association, can it also join Elia?

Absolutely! And your company will benefit from meeting with other companies from across borders.

If my company is located in a non-European country, can it join Elia?

Yes, as long as your company meets the membership criteria your company is welcome as a Member.

What is a language service company according to Elia’s definition?

An organisation that provides language services on a full-time basis to paying clients and employs two or more persons, owner included.

What are the different types of membership?

There are two categories of Elia membership:

• Full Member: A Full Member shall meet all membership criteria, including quality guidelines. Full Members must be actively involved in the sale, marketing and provision of language services. They shall have full voting rights, the right to appoint representatives to serve on committees and as officers and directors of the Association and other such benefits as may be established by the Board of Directors.
• Associate Members: Associate Members are Members who do not actively provide language services and/or who serve as vendors to language service companies and who wish to support the activities and objectives of the Association. Associate Members may include educational institutions and professional organisations with an interest in the field of translation and/or interpreting. Associate Members have no voting privileges but shall have such rights and benefits as may be established from time to time by the Board of Directors.

Can individuals join Elia?

Elia Full and Associate membership is open only to companies providing translation, localisation, internationalisation or globalisation products or services, including tools developers, training providers and consultancies. However a new Elia membership initiative was launched in 2017 – Elia Engage – which allows independent language professionals to join.

How much does membership cost?

The annual membership fees for Full Members are €430 and for Associate Members €600. We make every effort to keep fees as low as possible. Membership is valid for 12 months from receipt of payment.

Will my company receive an invoice when it joins?

Yes. Upon receipt of payment you will become an Elia Member with the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of Elia membership for the next 12 months.

What do I have to do to renew Elia membership?

Just before your 12-month membership period ends, we will get in touch and provide a proforma invoice to renew your membership. Upon receipt of payment your membership will be renewed and you can continue to access the full range of benefits available to Elia Members.

Is Elia VAT-registered?

Yes. Elia is fully registered for VAT in Belgium and our VAT number is BE0670.681.754.