Sworn, official and certified translation: what is the difference?

“Sworn”, “official”, “certified”… When you are asked for a translation for an official procedure, the names change depending on the country and the authority. This guide helps you work out which one you need.

Sworn translation

It is produced by a translator authorised by a country’s authorities, who signs and stamps the translation and declares that it is faithful to the original. It is required in most civil-law countries for official documents: certificates, degrees, judgments or powers of attorney. Each country has its own register or appointment system for sworn translators.

Certified translation

This is the usual term in countries such as the United Kingdom, Ireland or the United States, where there is no sworn translator system. The translator or agency adds a signed statement certifying the accuracy of the translation. For some procedures, that signature must also be notarised.

Official translation

This is a generic expression. It is often used as a synonym for sworn translation, but it can also mean a certified or legalised translation. If you are asked for an “official translation”, ask exactly which requirements it must meet.

Simple translation

A professional translation without any official signature or stamp. It is suitable for information purposes, internal documents, websites or contracts that are not submitted to an authority.

Which one do you need?

Type	Who signs it	When it is required
Sworn	Translator authorised by a country	Official procedures in countries with sworn translators
Certified	Translator or agency, sometimes before a notary	Procedures in English-speaking countries
Official	Depends on the country	Confirm the exact requirement
Simple	Professional translator, no official stamp	Information or internal use

The golden rule is to ask the authority receiving the document which type of translation it accepts and whether it needs an apostille.

How we work

You do not need to know which system applies in each country. Tell us the document, the language and where you will submit it, and we will assign the right professional from our international network of sworn and certified translators.

Not sure which translation you need? Ask us through our contact page or read about our sworn translation service.