In today’s globalized world, where legal, administrative, or academic procedures cross borders every day, sworn translations into English have become essential. Whether you need to submit documents abroad, validate university degrees in other countries, or manage immigration procedures, sworn translations ensure your documents have full legal validity.
In this article, we will explain what sworn translation is, how to hire a sworn translator, and where to find one.
What Is a Sworn Translation?
A sworn translation is an official translation, signed and sealed by a sworn translator authorized by Spain’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the European Union, and Cooperation. These translations are legally equivalent to the original document, as long as they meet the requirements set by the receiving authorities.
Unlike standard translations, which don’t have legal value on their own, sworn translations can be used in official procedures. To use a translation officially, it must be certified by a sworn translator.
In Spain, only translators who have passed the official MAEC exam or obtained equivalent accreditation are authorized to provide sworn translations.
Sworn translators are professionals whose signature and seal confirm the accuracy of the translated document, ensuring that it can be used in official procedures both in Spain and abroad.
When To Hire a Sworn Translator
You’ll need a sworn translation into English whenever you have to submit a document written in Spanish to a foreign authority, especially in English-speaking countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and others.
Common situations include:
- Visa or residence permit applications
- Studying at a foreign university
- Degree equivalency and certification
- Immigration or citizenship processes
- Participation in legal proceedings
- International notarial procedures
- Submitting documents to embassies or consulates
Each institution has its own requirements, so it’s important to check whether they specifically request a sworn translation. In general, if the document is legal, official, or academic and will be used abroad, it will likely need to be sworn.
Which Documents Need to Be Sworn Translated into English?
Here’s a list of documents that commonly require sworn translations:
- Birth, marriage, or death certificates
- University degrees, academic transcripts, or diplomas
- Contracts, deeds, wills, or powers of attorney
- Passports, driver’s licenses, or ID cards
- Court rulings, lawsuits, appeals, or expert reports
- Medical certificates, clinical tests, or health records
Once a sworn translator translates and certifies these documents, they become legally valid in the receiving country.
How to Find the Right Professional
Translation agencies are the quickest and easiest way to find a sworn translator. You’ll find agencies that specialize in these types of translations, with all their services focused on this field.
There are also agencies where sworn translation is just one of many services they offer. This doesn’t mean their work is of lower quality. On the contrary, it shows their versatility.
Independent translators not affiliated with any agency also offer sworn translation services. Many promote their services through personal websites.
To hire a sworn translator, simply contact the agency or translator and provide the original document. They will review it, then provide you with a quote for the translation.
Why Hire a Translation Agency?
We’ve already mentioned how to find a sworn translator, but here’s why we recommend hiring a translation agency:
- Professionalism: Translation agencies employ experts who handle a wide range of documents and have years of experience. Their sworn translators have the necessary qualifications, so you can be confident in their ability to manage your documents.
- Security and Quality: Translation agencies follow strict quality controls to ensure error-free translations. Therefore, there’s virtually no chance of mistakes in the documents they handle.
- Use of Technology: Most translators use tools that make their work easier and more efficient. With Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) tools, they can work faster and more accurately, improving both quality and speed.
- Speed and Scalability: If you need a document urgently or need multiple documents translated, an agency can handle the job. Agencies have teams of translators who can divide the workload, allowing them to take on larger projects and meet tight deadlines.
These are just a few reasons to hire a translation agency for your sworn translations. The choice of which type of agency or professional best fits your needs depends on you as the client. Both independent translators and agencies can deliver high-quality work. It all comes down to your preferences and requirements.
Interested in hiring a translation agency for your sworn translation? Feel free to contact us!
