A sworn German translation turns documents originally written in German into another language, such as Spanish, while ensuring full legal validity. Although you can use tools to create a basic version, only an authorised sworn translator has the right to produce this type of translation. The translator signs, stamps, and includes a declaration to confirm the document’s accuracy and completeness.
As a result, authorities such as consulates, ministries, universities, and courts require this kind of translation. In these situations, a regular translation simply won’t suffice.
When is a sworn German translation required
You’ll often need a sworn German translation for legal or administrative processes. Common scenarios include for instance applying for a visa, citizenship, or residence, and registering birth, marriage, or death certificates abroad.
You may also need it to submit academic degrees, contracts, or notarial documents. In all these cases, a regular translation is not sufficient, because institutions request a certified version of the original document.
How does a German sworn translation differ from a simple translation?
A simple translation might read well, but it doesn’t carry legal weight. A German sworn translation, however, comes with the translator’s stamp and signature, certifying the content as accurate and complete. Because, public authorities accept only this kind of translation.
Example 1: Birth Certificate
Original (in German):
Geburtsurkunde
Ausgestellt am 20. April 2012
Name: Lisa Müller
Geburtsort: München
Non-professional translation:
Certificado de nacimiento
Emitido 20 abril 2012
Nombre: Lisa Müller
Nacimiento: Múnich
Sworn (professional) translation:
Birth Certificate
Date of issue: 20 April 2012
Name: Lisa Müller
Place of birth: Munich
At first glance, both versions may seem similar. However, the sworn German translation uses clearer language and follows the official format required by institutions.
Example 2: University Diploma
Original (in German):
Bachelorzeugnis
Studiengang: Maschinenbau
Technische Universität Berlin
Abschlussjahr: 2020
Non-professional translation:
Diploma de licenciatura
Carrera: Ingeniería mecánica
Universidad Técnica de Berlín
Año: 2020
Sworn (professional) translation:
Bachelor’s Degree
Study programme: Mechanical Engineering
Technical University of Berlin
Year of completion: 2020
In brief, a professional version of a German translation uses the correct academic terminology and respects official translation standards.
Which documents usually require sworn translation?
Birth, marriage, and death certificates are the most common. Many people also need to translate academic diplomas, certificates, employment contracts, or business agreements.
You’ll also need a sworn German translation for legal rulings, notarial acts, and applications for residence or nationality. Besides, public authorities ask for translations that follow legal standards and accurately reflect the original.
Why work with a sworn translator?
A sworn translator does more than translate—they understand legal frameworks and follow the formatting rules of official institutions. Their expertise helps you avoid mistakes, delays, or rejections. In addition, they ensure that your German translation remains valid and accepted abroad.
Conclusion
In short, a sworn German translation plays a crucial role in legal and administrative processes abroad. You can get free German translations, however, choose an authorised sworn translator to guarantee your document’s accuracy, quality, and legal validity.
