Sworn translation vs. certified translation – what is the difference?
December 17
10 min read
December 17
10 min read
A sworn translation is a translation by a sworn translator who holds the relevant qualifications and is accredited by the Ministry of Justice in Poland. A sworn translator can confirm the compliance of the translation with the original using their signature and seal.
This type of translation is required for official documents, such as:
■ Birth certificates
■ Academic certificates
■ Court documents
■ International agreements
In Poland, sworn translation services are particularly popular for those dealing with official matters abroad or applying for citizenship.
In Anglo-Saxon countries, such as the United Kingdom and United States, there is no equivalent of a sworn translator. Instead, the term certified translation is used to describe a translation that has been certified by a translator or translation agency. Such a translation includes a statement that it conforms to the original and is typically signed by the translator and stamped by the agency.
A certified translation is often required for university applications, immigration matters, or legal documents in countries where no sworn translator system exists.
If you need professional assistance with a translation, get in touch with Localization Care , where we offer a full range of sworn and certified translation and localization services. The experts at Localization Care will ensure the highest quality and compliance with legal requirements.
Sworn translation: A sworn translation can only be performed by a translator who is accredited by an appropriate state authority, such as the Ministry of Justice in Poland. Such a translator is included on the list of sworn translators, whose activities are subject to strict regulations. A sworn translation is legally binding and recognized by government offices and institutions.
Certified translation: A certified translation can be performed by any professional translator, who makes a written statement that the translation is a true copy of the original. No additional credentials are required, but requirements often depend on the standards adopted by the institution or country.
Sworn translation services are indispensable in situations requiring the production of official or court documents, such as notarial deeds, court judgments, or birth certificates. Without a sworn translation, documents may not be recognized by Polish or foreign institutions.
Certified translation is usually sufficient in less formal contexts, such as university applications, immigration documents, or job applications. In Anglo-Saxon countries, this is commonly accepted for most procedures.
Sworn translation service: The translation is signed and stamped by a sworn translator. Each page of the document bears a mark of conformity to the original, and a sworn translation is usually prepared in a hard copy with the translator’s seal.
Certified translation: Instead of an official seal, the document bears a certificate of authentication, usually issued by a translator or translation agency. The certificate can be in the form of a statement that includes the translator’s details and confirmation of the accuracy of the translation.
If you are doing official business in Poland or in a country that recognizes sworn translations, you will need a sworn translation service. If, on the other hand, you need a document for an institution in an Anglo-Saxon country, a certified translation will most likely suffice.
It is always a good idea to check the requirements of a particular institution to avoid misunderstandings.
