Sworn translation: Everything you need to know

Have you heard of sworn translation but aren’t sure it’s what you need? Don’t worry! We’re going to look at what is a sworn translation, when you will need one and how they differ from other types of translation.

What is a sworn translation?

A sworn translation is an official translation that can only be translated, signed and stamped by a sworn translator who is accredited by the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation. In other words, it’s a legally valid translation that the sworn translator takes responsibility for.

Many of the texts that are translated within the scope of sworn translations are legal, but be careful!  Don’t confuse sworn translation with legal translation – it’s NOT the same thing. How do they differ?

Differences between a sworn translation and legal translation

There are two main differences between these two types of translation. On the one hand, the translator and, on the other, the stamp and signature.

Sworn translations must be carried out by a translator who is qualified for that purpose. However, a legal translation can be carried out by any translator with experience in that field.

Furthermore, the major difference lies in the fact that a sworn translation carries the signature, stamp and certification of the sworn translator, while a legal translation will never have any of these three things.

In what cases might I need a sworn translation?

A sworn translation will be required when you are going to submit that translation to public bodies or courts, for example. In other words, when you need an official translation that proves the translation says exactly the same thing as the original document.

Some common scenarios where a sworn translation is always required include: applying for citizenship, applying for a visa, and validating educational qualifications, among others.

Types of documents that require sworn translations

Every case is different, so we strongly recommend that you always check with the organisation where you will be submitting the document to see if a sworn translation is required. Nevertheless, BigTranslation is here to help you find out if your document requires an official translation.

Some documents that usually require a sworn translation are:

• Notarial documents and deeds.
• Special powers of attorney.
• Certificates of marriage, birth, death, criminal record, etc.
• University degree certificates and academic records.
• Employment contracts.
• Wills.

Legalisation of official documents that require sworn translations

It’s common for the legalisation or endorsement (Apostille) of the original document to be required in addition to the sworn translation. But what is legalisation? What is the Hague Apostille?

Legalisation verifies the authenticity of the signature that appears on a document and the Hague Apostille is a specific type of legalisation that can only be used on documents that come from a country that is one of the 100 signatories to The Hague Convention.

Public documents that often require a Hague Apostille or legalisation include notarial documents; birth, death or marriage certificates; criminal records; affidavits, etc.

Remember that the original documents must be legalised first and then the sworn translation is done afterwards. First legalise, then translate!

What elements must be included in a sworn translation?

1. The sworn translator’s certification: a sentence that states the language of the source text, the language the document has been translated into, and the place and date of the translation.

2. The sworn translator’s stamp: a stamp with the translator’s full name, language or languages they are authorised to translate and their sworn translator number.

3. The sworn translator’s signature: the translator’s signature must appear with the stamp and certification.

4. Copy of the original document: the translation must be accompanied by a copy of the original document, stamped and dated on all its pages.

With BigTranslation, you won’t have to worry about a thing. We only work with duly certified sworn translators, and we ensure that all these elements are included in your sworn translation.

Are you going to get married abroad and need the sworn translation of your birth certificate or a single status certificate? Are you going to study in another country and require the sworn translation of your academic records? Are you applying for a digital nomad visa and need a sworn translation of your employment contract, a letter from the company that authorises remote working or a criminal record certificate? Don’t wait any longer – request your sworn translation from BigTranslation today!

BigTranslation is the only agency that offers sworn translation services with an Instant Quote directly from the website. The process is very simple and the speed and quality of your sworn translation are guaranteed!