You had a sworn translation made in Belgiumand need to use it abroad? Will it be accepted as is, or is an additional step required? Here is what determines the validity of a Belgian translation beyond our borders.
📖 See also: apostille a Belgian document · apostille and legalisation · sworn translation in 24h
Is a Belgian translation valid abroad?
A translation made by a sworn translator listed in the Belgian national register is official in Belgium. Abroad, its recognition depends on the destination country: some accept it directly, others require an apostille or a legalisation of the translator's signature to validate it.
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What determines recognition
- The destination country: whether or not it is a member of the Hague Convention.
- The authority receiving the document: administration, university, court, notary.
- The target language: the translation must be made into the locally required language.
- The apostille of the translator's signature, often requested for use abroad.
Good to know: always ask the foreign authority whether it requires an apostille on the translation, and in which language. This avoids a refusal and a second order.
Hague Convention country or not
For a country that signed the Hague Convention, an apostille is enough to authenticate the signature. For a non-signatory country, a chain legalisation is required: by the Belgian authorities, then by the embassy or consulate of the country concerned. Check the country's status before starting the process.
How to secure validity
- Confirm the target language and the expected format with the foreign authority.
- Have the translation made by a Belgian sworn translator.
- Have the translator's signature apostilled if the country requires it.
- Keep the original and a digital copy of the complete file.
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Sworn translation by a Belgian sworn translator, ready to be apostilled for the target country.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Is an apostille always required for use abroad?
No, it depends on the country and the authority. Some accept the Belgian sworn translation directly, others require an apostille of the translator's signature. Check the requirement with the recipient.
Into which language should I translate for use abroad?
Into the official language of the country or the one required by the authority. Specify it before ordering to avoid an unusable translation.
What about a country that did not sign the Hague Convention?
A chain legalisation replaces the apostille: Belgian authorities then the embassy of the country concerned. Find out the exact steps in advance.
A file to send abroad quickly?
Express available for the sworn translation of your documents intended for international use.