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Sworn translations of documents in Portugal with JJ Gestoria

To validate documents issued in another language before Portuguese authorities, it is essential to accompany them with a certified or sworn translation. According to the Instituto dos Registos e do Notariado (IRN), documents in a foreign language must be translated into Portuguese by an authorized professional and the translation must be presented to the registries or notaries. irn.justica.gov.pt. Sworn translations are required for a wide variety of procedures: homologation of academic degrees, visa applications, court proceedings, registration of marriages and adoptions, among others. JJ Gestoria works with translators recognized by the Portuguese and Spanish authorities, guaranteeing that your documents will be accepted without any problems.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a sworn or certified translation?

It is a translation of a document written in a foreign language that, in order to be legally valid in Portugal, must be done by a person or entity authorized and certified before a notary, conservator, lawyer, solicitor or chamber of commerce. The translator declares under oath that the translation is faithful to the original, which gives the document official status.

Do all foreign documents require a certified translation?

The general rule is that documents written in another language must be accompanied by a certified translation. irn.justica.gov.pt . However, some public documents issued in the European Union - such as birth, marriage or nationality certificates - are exempt from translation if they are accompanied by a multilingual form. Documents in English, French or Spanish may also be exempt when the registration officer is fluent in the language and they are intended for civil, property or commercial registration acts.

Who is authorized to do a sworn translation in Portugal?

Certified translations can be done by Portuguese notaries, conservators or registry officers, lawyers, solicitors, recognized chambers of commerce, qualified translators whose signature is certified, and Portuguese consulates in the country of origin or the country's consulate in Portugal. When the translation is done by a professional translator, he/she must appear before the competent authority to swear to the accuracy of his/her work.

How is a translation certified?

After the translation is completed, the translator appears before a notary, conservator, registry officer, lawyer, solicitor or chamber of commerce and declares under oath that the translation is faithful to the original document. The authority issues a certificate that is attached to the translation, and the whole is ready to be submitted to any Portuguese public body.

What types of documents usually require sworn translation?

Certified translation is required for criminal record certificates, academic degrees, birth, marriage and divorce certificates, court judgments, contracts, powers of attorney and business documents. Public documents from EU countries with a multilingual form may be exempt, but in practice many institutions still require sworn translation for security.

Can I translate my documents at the consulate instead of a notary?

Yes, according to IRN, translations can be done by the Portuguese consulate in the country where the document was issued or by the consulate of that country in Portugal. This option is useful when you need translations of documents that will continue to be used in the country of origin or when you cannot find translators skilled in the required language combination.

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.

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