Confused
about sworn and certified translation? In Europe, these terms carry different
legal meanings, and choosing the right one is critical.
Learn how to navigate
the differences and ensure your documents meet official requirements.
When moving to Europe for work, study, or immigration, you’ll likely
need official translations of important documents such as birth certificates,
diplomas, or legal agreements. But not all translations are the same, and the
terminology used in the U.S. doesn’t always match European standards. One
common point of confusion is the difference between sworn translations
and certified translations—two terms that may sound similar but have
distinct legal implications.
What Is a Sworn Translation?
A sworn translation (also called an official or certified
translation in some countries) is a translation performed by a sworn
translator who has been officially appointed by a court or government
authority. This translator’s signature and stamp give the document legal
validity, making it equivalent to the original in the eyes of European
institutions.
Sworn translations are typically required for:
- Visa
and residency applications
- University
admissions
- Marriage
and birth certificates
- Legal
contracts and court documents
The requirements for sworn translations vary by country. In France,
Spain, Germany, and Belgium, for example, only translators accredited by
the relevant authorities can produce sworn translations.
What Is a Certified Translation?
In the U.S., a certified translation usually refers to a
translation accompanied by a signed statement from the translator or
translation agency confirming its accuracy. This type of certification is
common for USCIS applications and other official uses in the U.S. However, in
many European countries, a certified translation alone is not legally
recognized unless it has been done by a sworn translator.
Some European institutions may accept certified translations,
particularly for:
- Business
and financial documents
- Personal
statements or letters
- Academic
transcripts (if not requiring a sworn translation)
However, for immigration, legal, and government-related matters, a sworn
translation is usually mandatory.
How to Choose the Right Type of Translation
Before getting your documents translated, always check the requirements
of the country and institution you are dealing with. Some general
guidelines include:
- For legal, immigration, and
official purposes → You will likely need a sworn translation.
- For informal, business, or
non-governmental use → A certified translation may be sufficient.
Since regulations differ across Europe, working with a trusted
European-based sworn translation company ensures your documents meet the
necessary legal standards.
Get Your Translations Right the First Time
Choosing the wrong type of translation can cause delays and extra costs. If you’re unsure whether you need a sworn or certified translation, contact us today for expert guidance and professional translation services tailored to European requirements.