Are all translators sworn translators?
Professionals may smile at this question, but it frequently confuses the average person. A quick clarification is therefore needed.
What is a sworn translator?
The title of “sworn” or “certified” translator or interpreter is given to a professional who has taken an oath before a court of law. This means that a sworn translator undertakes to faithfully translate legal texts from one language into another. In Belgium, only those registered in the national register of sworn translators and interpreters and who have obtained an identification number (VTI number) may hold the title of sworn translator.
Documents requiring
sworn translations
Documents requiring a sworn translation are generally submitted to administrative or legal authorities. Here are a few examples:
- Birth certificate
- Marriage or divorce certificate
- Driver’s license
- Diploma
- Minutes
Auditions
- Summons
- Judgments
- Expert reports
The field of work for a sworn translator, as you can see, is wide ranging and diverse, covering all types of official document.
The need for an apostille
or legalization
Is it necessary to affix an apostille or legalize a sworn or sworn-in translation? Is this within the competence of a sworn translator?
This depends on the destination of your translated document. If the sworn translation is destined for Belgium, the digital signature of the sworn translator has acted as legalization since 2022. On the other hand, if your document is destined for a foreign country, the sworn translator must contact the FPS Foreign Affairs to obtain an apostille or legalization.
The legalization and apostille process
The process may seem complex for documents intended for use abroad. After translating the document, the sworn translator contacts the FPS Foreign Affairs to obtain an apostille or legalization, depending on the requirements of the destination country. An apostille is an additional certification that authenticates the translator’s signature and seal, making the document valid in countries that are members of the 1961 Hague Convention.
Making the right choice of sworn translator
When contacting a sworn translator, it is essential to provide them with as much information as possible to enable them to assist you in the best possible way. Sworn translators must not only have excellent linguistic skills, but also an in-depth knowledge of the legal and administrative systems of the countries concerned.
Being a sworn translator is more than just a job: it is a passion, but above all an immense responsibility. Henalex Conference Services has been in the business for 20 years. We understand the importance of every document we translate and are committed to providing accurate and faithful translations.
Conclusion
To sum up, not all translators are sworn translators. This specific title involves rigorous training, taking an oath and being listed on the national register in Belgium. Sworn translators play a crucial role in the translation of official documents for both local and international authorities. If you are looking for sworn translation services, choose an experienced and reliable provider like Henalex Conference Services to guarantee the quality and authenticity of your documents.