Sworn Translations in Portugal | JJ Gestoría

Validate your foreign documents with complete legal certainty. We offer official and certified translations into Portuguese, recognized by the IRN and accepted for all your visa, approval, and registration procedures.

When is a sworn translation needed?

The general rule in Portugal is that any document drafted in a foreign language must be submitted with a certified translation to be officially valid. Exceptions exist for certain public documents issued by member states of the European Union - for example, birth, marriage or nationality certificates - when they are accompanied by a multilingual form. The translation may also be waived if the competent official is fluent in the language of the document, provided that it is written in English or Spanish and is intended for civil, property or mercantile registration acts. In all other cases, such as university degrees, criminal record or contractscertified translation is mandatory. The translation must faithfully reflect the content and format of the original, since any discrepancy may invalidate the procedure or generate additional requirements.

 

Who can perform a sworn translation in Portugal?

Qualified professionals

  • Notaries, conservators or registry officers.
  • Lawyers or solicitors practicing in Portugal.
  • Recognized chambers of commerce.
  • Qualified translators with accredited competence.
  • Portuguese consulates in the country of origin or consulates of the issuing country in Portugal.

Certification before a notary or authority

If done by a qualified translator, the translation is filed before a notary, conservator, registry officer, attorney, solicitor or chamber of commerce. The translator declares under oath or a pledge of honor that the translated text is true to the original. This act grants legal validity and allows its use before any public body in Portugal. JJ Gestoria coordinates the appointment and verifies headings, stamps and signatures to meet the formal requirements.

 

Types of documents requiring sworn translation

Personal and civil documents

  • Birth, marriage and death certificates.
  • Divorce or adoption decrees.
  • Certificates of life and nationality.
  • (Some EU countries may be exempted with a multilingual form, depending on the case).

Academic and professional documents

  • University diplomas and postgraduate degrees.
  • Transcripts and academic records.
  • Curricula and letters of recommendation.
  • Often require apostille previous.

Legal and commercial documents

  • Contracts and powers of attorney.
  • Bylaws and registration certificates.
  • Certificates of criminal record and sentences.
  • Immigration, nationality or company opening procedures.

 

Sworn translation process with JJ Gestoria

Initial evaluation and budget

We analyze the language, length and purpose of the procedure to offer an adjusted budget and a realistic deadline.

Translation and certification

We assign a specialized translator and schedule the certification before a notary, lawyer or chamber of commerce.

Delivery and legal advice

We deliver translation and certificate; if applicable, we guide you with apostille or legalization and validate possible exemptions.

Do you need a sworn translation in Portugal? Contact JJ Gestoria today.

Our certified translators and legal experts guarantee speed, accuracy and acceptance by the authorities.