Certified Translation

What is a Certified Translation?

A certified translation is an official translation performed by a sworn translator or recognized by competent entities, such as notaries, chambers of commerce, or consular services. It is used to confer legal validity to documents translated for administrative, judicial, or immigration purposes.

When is it Necessary?

Certified translations are required in Portugal in the following cases:

• Portuguese Nationality Processes

• Homologation of Foreign Judgments

• Registration of Marriage, Birth, or Death in the Civil Registry

• Immigration and Residence Processes

• Recognition of Foreign Academic Diplomas

• Registration of Foreign Companies or Businesses in Portugal

• Contracts or Commercial Documents for International Use

Types of Certified Translation

1. Sworn Translation:
   Performed by an officially recognized translator, with an authenticity declaration signed and stamped.

2. Notary-Recognized Translation:
   Translation validated by a public notary, confirming the accuracy of the translation and the translator.

3. Consular Translation:
   Translation certified by embassies or consulates of the document's country of origin.

4. Certified Translation with Hague Apostille:
   Translation accompanied by an apostille, ensuring the document's international validity.

Common Documents Requiring Certified Translation

1. Personal Documents:

   • Birth, marriage, and death certificates

   • Passports or identity documents

   • Criminal record certificates

2. Academic Documents:

   • Diplomas and study completion certificates

   • School transcripts

   • Academic equivalency statements

3. Legal Documents:

   • Court judgments and homologation certificates

   • Contracts and powers of attorney

   • Inheritance or division of assets documents

4. Commercial and Business Documents:

   • Company statutes

   • Commercial registration certificates

   • Employment contracts or commercial agreements

Documents Required to Request a Certified Translation

1. Original Document:
   The document to be translated must be original or a certified copy.

2. Translation Authorization (if required):
   Some entities may require authorization to translate personal documents.

3. Proof of Identity:
   The requestor's identification document (passport or citizen card).

4. Hague Apostille (if applicable):
   For foreign documents that require recognition in Portugal.

5. Documents with Specific Requirements:
   For administrative purposes, check with the requesting entity for additional requirements.

How to Request a Certified Translation in Portugal

1. Select a Competent Translator or Service:
   Hire a sworn translator or use notarial/consular services.

2. Submit the Original Document:
   Provide the document to be translated, with the necessary legalizations if needed.

3. Certify the Translation:
   After translation, the document will be authenticated by a notary, translator, or competent entity.

4. Delivery to the Requestor:
   The translated document is returned with the certification seal, ready for use.

Important Observations

• Validity Period:
  Foreign certificates and documents have specific validity periods, which must be respected.

• Official Translation in Portuguese:
  All documents intended for use in Portugal must be translated into Portuguese.

• Cost:
  Costs vary depending on the document's complexity and the certification service.