Sworn translations
Sworn translations are official, certified translations that carried out by an approved ‘sworn’ translator, authorized by the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation.
These translations have official status, and are valid both nationally and internationally. They are usually mandatory with respect to legal and official documents, such as birth certificates, university degrees, contracts, powers of attorney, and others.
Sworn translations are of crucial importance in areas such as the legal, academic and business sectors, not to mention in general public activities, as they are required for the presentation of documents in official proceedings, judicial processes and other areas where the authenticity of an original document and its corresponding translation need to be accredited.
When sworn translations are required, hiring a sworn translator with the necessary experience and authorization is essential. Sworn translations must meet specific requirements, such as the inclusion of the sworn translator's signature, and their stamp and certification, as these confirm the authenticity and accuracy of the document.
Here is a list of just some of the documents that may require mandatory sworn translations:
- Birth, marriage and death certificates
- University degrees and academic certificates
- Powers of attorney and public deeds
- Contracts and legal agreements
- Identity documents (passports, driving licenses, etc.)
- Criminal record certificates
- Medical reports and health certificates
- Banking and financial documents
- Tax returns and accounting statements
- Contracts and business agreements
- Company by-laws and commercial register extracts
- Minutes of shareholders' meetings and board meetings
- Annual reports and accounts
- Financial statements
- Instruction manuals and technical specifications
The provision of sworn translations with digital signatures is becoming increasingly more commonplace.
This electronic authentication technique allows documents to be signed online, it guarantees their authenticity, integrity and confidentiality, and ensures a faster, more efficient management of official documents.
