What is sworn translation?
Sworn translation is an authorized service that translates important documents. It usually refers to an official document that is signed and sealed by a sworn translator. Sworn translators have received authorization from Foreign Offices to translate these documents. Sworn translation enables various types of documents to be modified and adapted for specific countries. In order to do the job with efficiency and accuracy, sworn translators tend to be highly educated and certified translators. Due to increased globalization and migration, sworn translation has become a more in-demand process.
Documents that may require sworn translation include birth certificates, diplomas and academic certificates, civil certificates, wills, and legal and technical documents.
Why it’s important
Sworn translation is a vital service to guarantee translation accuracy and gain legal recognition. Many translated documents often have to be presented to a court or school, and having sworn translation is necessary.
When it’s required
Sworn translation is oftentimes a vital process and required for many different circumstances. Some of the most notable scenarios that require a sworn translation include:
- Documents for immigration purposes: To enter a foreign country, a pile of documentation is often needed to acquire a visa and resident applications. Such documents that may require a sworn translation include passports, criminal records checks, medical reports and character references.
- Documents for school: Sworn translations may be used for documents required at educational institutions. Such documents that can be translated are previous educational records, financial resources, and proof of language proficiency.
- Administrative documents: Sworn translations may be necessary for administrative documents like driver’s license, birth certificate, and certain medical documents.
- Employment documents: Employers may require documents that should be certified and sealed by a sworn translator, documents like professional accreditations, personal references, and employment records.
What do sworn translators do?
Sworn translators have an incredibly important role in helping authenticate crucial documents for others. Having the ability to legalize various types of official documents, sworn translators also validate these documents in accordance with the laws of a specific country. After authorization of a document, sworn translators must submit these documents to an official body, like a court or government department. Sworn translators are expected to have some knowledge and experience in the following areas:
- Translating documents
- Translating laws, regulations, and agreements
- Arranging the authentication and translation of a document
- Advising clients in regard to the translation of certain documents
- Make copies of translated documents
To become a sworn translator, one must be proficient in linguistics, international law, and legislation in order to translate documents and follow specific laws properly. Sworn translators are usually required to have a master’s degree from an accredited academic institution. Acquiring a license to become an official sworn translator varies from country to country. Countries that require sworn translators and translations include:
- Brazil
- France
- Germany
- Italy
- Poland
- Spain
- Indonesia
- Argentina
- Netherlands
Format of sworn translation
Formatting of a sworn translation all depends on the country that requires it. If someone from a foreign country is applying for a national visa in a country like the Netherlands, that country would expect a local sworn translator to translate and verify all required documents. Typically, this process begins with the sworn translator asking for the documents to be translated and authorized.
When the translation is complete, a certificate is attached with the seal and signature of the sworn translator. If the documents are used in various locations, like within the EU, an Apostille might also have to be attached.
Hiring a Sworn Contractor
There are many options to choose from when in need of assistance for translation purposes. Technical and certified translators are highly skilled and qualified to translate certain documents. Hiring a sworn translator can be a great assistance when trying to enter countries or seek entry into foreign educational institutions. Sworn translations and translators will ensure that required, and essential documents are authenticated and prepared for a myriad of legal, educational, and administrative situations. Acquiring a sworn translation will make most documents internationally certified by thoroughly translating and modifying them in accordance with international laws.