Certified, Authenticated or Sworn Translation Service
Internationally recognised legal validity
Request a Free QuoteThe need for a certified translation is not always clear. Usually, the entity where you need to present the translation will be the one to request a certified, authenticated or sworn translation. The picture becomes more complex, however, when, in addition to finding the right certified translator for your needs, you must choose between a sworn translation, a certified translation or an authenticated translation. What are the differences between these?
At M21Global, we act in accordance with legal requirements and are positioned as a reference company for certified translations. We understand the importance of accurate and legally recognised translations. Our team of certified translators is available to guide the entire process, from what a certified translation means to identifying situations in which it is necessary.
Certified, Sworn or Authenticated Translation?
Although the most commonly used term is "certified translation", the expressions "authenticated translation" and "sworn translation" are also frequently encountered, depending on the country. All these terms carry the same fundamental meaning: a qualified translator has verified and declared that the translation is a faithful representation of the original document.
Who needs certified documents and when
A certified translation may be necessary in a variety of situations, including legal, academic, commercial or personal reasons, which sometimes overlap. Visa applications, immigration processes, job applications abroad, enrolment in educational institutions outside the country, judicial proceedings and international commercial transactions are some common examples.
This certification validates and attests that the information in the translation, in the target language, is correct and accurate in relation to the document in the original language. To be considered a certified translation, an official declaration from the translator before a notary or lawyer is required. This declaration confirms that the translated document is a faithful and accurate representation of the original, conferring legal validity upon it in the destination country.
The need to certify translated documents may arise in a private or business context. Certification of translated documents is required for official or legal purposes, encompassing documents such as birth, marriage and death certificates, contracts, academic diplomas, legal documents, among others.
International Certification Process
A certified translation, whether for domestic or international use, is typically authenticated by an authorised public official (such as a notary, lawyer, or sworn translator, depending on the jurisdiction). If the document is destined for a foreign country, the certification must comply with the standards of that country, which often implies the inclusion of the Apostille of The Hague or equivalent legalisation.
Fast and Secure Delivery
Physical certified translations are sent on the very day of their completion, by registered mail or DHL express. If you prefer, we can arrange local courier delivery.
Integrated Solution Without Delays
At M21Global, we have qualified translators with legal expertise, capable of certifying translations. These are directly accepted in many jurisdictions and, with the Hague Apostille, are also internationally recognised. When required, we handle the entire legalisation process, providing an end-to-end service that saves time and avoids bureaucracy for the client.
M21Global Responds to Your Needs
At M21Global, we use specialised translators who are native speakers of the target language to ensure the total reliability of the translation in relation to the original document. In all our translation services, we guarantee the specificity and rigour required for this type of translation.
We follow all ISO 17100 quality standards and as such we are a translation company certified by Bureau Veritas. In Portugal, thanks to our commitment to the highest standards, M21Global was awarded the distinction of being in the top 5% best Small and Medium Enterprises in 2023.
Frequently Asked Questions
A certified translation is accompanied by an official declaration from the translator, guaranteeing that the translated document is accurate and faithful to the original. This certification is essential to demonstrate to official entities that the translated document corresponds exactly to the original document issued in the country of origin by an official entity. In many cases, government bodies, academic institutions and professional entities require a certified translation to ensure the authenticity and validity of the translated document.
A certified translation involves a professional translator who declares, in writing, that the translation is accurate and complete. Depending on the jurisdiction, the translator may need to make this declaration before a notary, lawyer, or other authorised official, confirming the fidelity of the translation to the original. The process ensures that the document is legally valid for its intended use.
Requirements vary by country. In some jurisdictions, certified or sworn translators must be officially registered (as in Spain or Brazil). In others, any professional translator can certify their work before a public official such as a notary or lawyer. At M21Global, our translators are experienced professionals who work within the legal framework of the destination country to ensure full compliance.
To verify the authenticity of a certified translation, check for: an official declaration page signed and stamped by the certifying authority (notary, lawyer, or sworn translator); the translator's sworn statement confirming accuracy; and, if applicable, the Apostille of The Hague for international recognition. These elements together provide legal assurance of the translation's validity.
The price depends on the language pair, document volume and any additional requirements such as the Apostille of The Hague. Simple documents like certificates have standard prices; more complex documents are quoted individually. Request a free quote and receive a proposal within 3 hours.
The typical timeframe ranges from 2 to 5 business days for simple documents. For longer documents or those requiring the Apostille of The Hague, the timeframe may be longer. We also offer an urgent service for tight deadlines, without compromising our quality processes.
The Apostille of The Hague is required when the certified translation is intended for a country that is a signatory to The Hague Convention. If the document is for domestic use only, local certification (before a notary, lawyer, or sworn translator) is typically sufficient. We recommend consulting the requirements of the destination country. At M21Global, we handle the full Apostille process when needed.