Which Countries Require Sworn Translations?

We are often asked what type of translation is needed for use in certain countries. This varies case by case and from country to country but there are some general rules that can be followed.

To give some context for this article, the legal framework of most countries will fall under one of two main categories; Common Law or Civil Law. Common Law is based on judicial precedent and there is more flexibility for courts and various authorities to interpret the laws and make their own decisions based upon this. On the other hand, Civil Law is based on codification which in essence means there will be well established laws that courts and authorities will refer to.

The translation requirements for countries generally runs parallel to the legal framework of that country. Common Law countries such as the UK, the USA and Australia do not have official translation systems and what is considered to be an acceptable translation is dependent on the opinion on the authority requesting this. They may simply ask for the document to be translated by a professional translator, they may want the translation to also contain contact details of the translator or translation agency, they may want the translation to also be certified by a solicitor or notary or they may not have any specific translation requirements at all.

This is not generally the case for Civil Law countries. Civil Law countries such as France, Spain, Italy, Germany or Romania will have well established translation systems. In these countries, there are Sworn Translators who are appointed and accredited by the government or court in that country. For example, in Spain an individual must be certified by the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs in order to be recognised as a Sworn Translator. Sworn Translators will also generally need to make an oath in front of the courts of that country stating that they will translate all documents accurately to the best of their knowledge.

If your translation is to be presented to an authority within a Civil Law country then it is likely you will be asked to produce a Sworn Translation. We can assist with providing a Sworn Translation for many of these countries. Some examples of countries we can provide Sworn Translations for include:-

• Spain
• Italy
• France
• Belgium
• Germany
• Greece
• Austria
• Poland
• Romania
• Slovakia

If you require a Sworn Translation for your documents please get in touch.