Sworn translation, what is it?

A sworn translation is an official document used to verify that the translation is accurate and faithful to the original text. That means it’s an additional service on top of simply translating a document. Also known as asseveration, it’s referred to as sworn translation because the translator assumes liability for the translation, both civil and criminal, by signing an oath. Asseveration grants the translated document the same legal status as the original.

When do you need sworn translation?

Sworn translations are required when you need to make a document from another country, that’s written in a foreign language, legally valid, or when a document issued in Italy has to be submitted to an authority in a country where Italian is not the official language.

Typical examples of documents sworn translation is requested for include:

•  – articles and certificates of incorporation, contracts, compliance certificates, financial statements
•  – academic credentials, academic transcripts, qualifications
•  – CVs for working overseas or enrolling in university abroad
•  – birth and marriage certificates, divorce papers and powers of attorney
•  – driving licence and registration documents
•  – citizenship application documents
•  – judicial documents and criminal records

Who can provide sworn translations?

Asseveration is carried out by a professional translator, who may need to meet different criteria depending on the Courthouse and target Country. In general, the translator should be on the Register of Authorised Expert Witnesses or legal assessors (Albo dei Periti o Consulenti Tecnici d’Ufficio), or be accredited by the Chamber of Commerce.

Where does asseveration take place?

Asseveration can be carried out in a Courthouse or at a notary’s office. The translator themselves has to go to one of these places to swear, in front of a court clerk, that the translated document is faithful to the original and to sign a transcript of their oath.

This means the translator becomes legally responsible for the translation being true to the source document. The oath can only be sworn in the language spoken in the Country in which the asseveration takes place.

In short, the process consists of:

•  – translating the document and checking its legal compliance
•  – the translator travelling to the relevant office
•  – swearing of oath and affixing any stamps required
•  – the translator swearing an oath
•  – delivering the final asseveration file to the client, which includes the original document (or an authenticated copy), the translated document and a transcript of the oath signed by the translator.

Our team of professional translators can swiftly guide individuals and companies through the entire asseveration process at any Italian Courthouse. Do you need a sworn translation? Get in touch to find out more.