When a Sworn Translation is Mandatory?

24 de janeiro de 2025

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In Brazil, sworn (or also certified) translation is an essential service in a number of situations, especially when it comes to official documents that need to be legally recognized, both in Brazil and other countries. If you have ever needed to translate documents for legal, academic, or commercial processes, you have likely encountered sworn translation.

But when is sworn translation mandatory? In this article, we explain in detail what sworn translation is, when it is required, and why it is crucial to ensure the legal validity of your document.

What is a Sworn Translation?

Sworn translation is performed by public translators, professionals authorized by the government to translate official documents with legal validity. The translation is accompanied by the translator’s signature and seal, ensuring that the translated content is faithful to the original and holds the same legal validity.

This type of translation is recognized in courts, government agencies, and private entities in Brazil and abroad.

When a Sworn Translation is Mandatory?

A sworn translation is mandatory in many cases, especially when documents need to be presented in official proceedings. Here are some examples:

1. Legal and Administrative Documents

When you need to present documents to public bodies or government institutions, such as birth, marriage, death certificates or any other civil document.

Example: If a Brazilian citizen is going to live abroad and needs to present a birth certificate at a consulate, a sworn translation will be required.

2. Documents for Academic or Professional Processes

Many universities and educational institutions require diplomas and academic transcripts to be sworn translated for validation in other countries or even within Brazil.

Example: If you are applying for a scholarship abroad, you will need to have your diploma sworn translated.

3. Commercial Contracts and Powers of Attorney

In international business transactions, a sworn translation may be required for contracts, agreements or powers of attorney that need to be legally valid in both countries involved.

Example: When concluding a contract with a foreign company, you will need a sworn translation to ensure that the terms of the agreement are clear and valid.

4. Immigration Related Documents

When it comes to immigration, sworn translation is commonly required for personal documents such as passports, visas, criminal background checks, and others.

Example: To obtain a work visa, sworn translation of personal documents will be requested by embassies or consulates.

Why is Sworn Translation Important?

Sworn translation is not just about translating; it’s about ensuring the authenticity and accuracy of the content. Correct translation is crucial, especially in legal documents, where a mistake can have serious legal, financial, or even personal implications.

Moreover, sworn translation ensures that the translated content is officially accepted by authorities and institutions, avoiding delays or rejections in the process.

How Traduções do Mercosul Can Help

At Traduções do Mercosul, we have over 15 years of experience providing high-quality sworn translations to clients in Brazil and abroad. Whether for personal, academic or business documents, we ensure accuracy and legal compliance, offering the support you need to ensure your international communication is secure and effective.

Contact us and find out how we can help you with reliable sworn translations for your process.

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