Sworn Translation
An official translation produced by an authorized (sworn/certified) translator, carrying legal force for submission to government authorities.
A sworn (certified) translation is an official translation of a document produced by an authorized translator entitled to certify the accuracy of the translation, or a translation certified by a notary. Unlike an ordinary translation, it has legal force and is accepted by government authorities.
Such a translation is usually required for foreign-language documents submitted in a migration file — birth and marriage certificates, police clearances, banking and other papers. Who may produce a sworn translation and how it is executed depends on the country: in some places there is an institution of sworn translators, in others notarial certification is used.
A sworn translation often goes hand in hand with an apostille or consular legalization: in some cases the original is legalized, in others the translation itself may need certifying. The procedure should be clarified in advance so that documents are accepted without delay.
“Order matters: legalise the document first, then have it translated — including every stamp, seal and handwritten note on the back. A translation done before the apostille usually has to be paid for twice.”
Susana Ablyamitova — LawyerFAQ
Who may produce a sworn translation, and where should it be commissioned?
It usually has to come from a translator listed on a register or accredited in the country where the papers are filed; a translation made abroad may not be accepted. Confirm the translator's standing with the receiving authority before commissioning the work.
How should names be spelled in the translation?
Normally exactly as they appear in the international passport, and identically across every document in the file. Inconsistent transliteration is a common cause of follow-up requests and delay.
Does a sworn translation expire?
The translation itself normally does not, but the underlying document may — certificates in particular. When the original expires, both it and its translation are obtained again.
Does the whole document have to be translated, stamps and apostille included?
As a rule yes: the translation covers the entire document, including stamps, seals, signatures and the apostille. Partial translations are frequently sent back.
Who is liable if the translation contains an error?
A sworn translator certifies accuracy with a signature and seal and bears responsibility for it under the law of that country. In practice an error is put right by a fresh translation, which can push back the filing date.