Do you need to use a Belgian document abroad and are you being asked to apostille it, then have it translated? Here is how to correctly chain apostille, legalisation and sworn translation so that your document is recognised outside Belgium.
📖 See also: apostille and legalisation explained · translating a birth certificate · sworn translation in 24h
Apostille or legalisation: what is being asked?
For a Belgian public document to be recognised abroad, it must often be authenticated. If the country of destination has signed the Hague Convention, an apostille is sufficient. Otherwise, a legalisation by the Belgian authorities and then by the embassy of the country concerned is required.
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Which documents are concerned?
- Belgian civil status documents: birth, marriage, death.
- Diplomas and transcripts issued in Belgium.
- Criminal record extracts and administrative certificates.
- Notarised documents and company deeds.
In which order to proceed?
- Obtain the original document or a recent certified copy from the Belgian authority.
- Have the document apostilled at the competent service of the FPS Foreign Affairs.
- Entrust the sworn translation to a sworn translator, in the language of the target country.
- Check whether the apostille also covers the translation, some countries require it.
Good to know: ask the foreign authority for the exact order of the steps. Some countries want the apostille before the translation, others require an apostille on the translation itself. Confirming in advance avoids having to start everything over.
Should the translation be apostilled?
It depends on the country of destination. A translation made by a Belgian sworn translator may itself require an apostille of its signature to be recognised abroad. This is a step distinct from the apostille of the original document: check the local requirements before sending your file.
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FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Where do I have a Belgian document apostilled?
The apostille is issued by the legalisation service of the FPS Foreign Affairs. The official step is a matter for the administration: confirm the procedures and deadlines directly with the competent service.
Should I translate before or after the apostille?
It depends on the country of destination. Often the original document is apostilled first, then translated. Some countries also require an apostille on the translation. Check with the foreign authority.
Can everything be handled express?
The translation part can be carried out in express for common languages. The apostille depends on the administration's deadlines.
Deadline abroad approaching?
Express available for the sworn translation of your apostilled Belgian documents.