What Is the Difference Between Sworn and Notarised Translation?

The question we hear most in translation orders is: "Do I need a sworn or a notarised translation?" The two concepts are close but not the same. The right choice saves both time and money.

What is a sworn translation?

A sworn translator is a person who has taken an oath before a notary and gained the authority to translate. After completing the work, the translator adds a stamp, signature and date under the text and declares that it matches the original. Universities, civil registries, trade registry bodies and many embassies accept this assurance.

What is a notarised translation?

In a notarised translation the sworn translator translates first; then a notary certifies the authenticity of the translator's signature and authority. The notary does not check the content; the notary documents that a sworn translator made the translation. Notarisation therefore does not replace the sworn translation, it is added on top of it.

Which one when?

• A sworn stamp alone may be enough: Private companies, local universities or internal use.
• Notarisation may be required: Consulate visa files, title deed and trade registry procedures, documents submitted to courts.
• Notarisation and apostille may be required: Cases where the document will be used in an official procedure in another country.

Cost and timing

A sworn translation is priced per page; notarisation is a separate fee per document. The notary step often finishes the same day, so the time difference is small. The real difference is that needless notarisation can add hundreds of liras per document.

What to do before deciding

Check the letter or web page of the institution you will submit the document to. If it says "sworn translator", it has not asked for notarisation; if it says "notarised" or "apostilled", there is an extra step. If you are unsure, send us the institution's letter. Our project manager confirms the valid approval type free of charge, so you avoid unnecessary spending.

The "Which approval does my document need?" quiz on our site also guides you with four questions; the result is for information, and the institution always sets the final requirement.

Common mistakes

• Notarising every document: If the institution does not ask for it, you create needless cost.
• Not checking the translator's scope: Make sure the language pair the translator is sworn for matches the document.
• Leaving out the source document: Notarisation binds the translation to the source document; an incomplete handover delays the procedure.

To avoid these three mistakes it is enough to write the institution you will submit the document to when you order.

Conclusion

In short: a sworn translation guarantees who made the translation, while notarisation guarantees the authenticity of that person's authority and signature. Choose whichever the institution asks for, according to its written requirement. That saves both time and budget and raises the chance of your document being accepted at the first application. At every point of doubt our managers guide you free of charge.