Is certified translation mandatory for all exchange countries?
If you're planning an exchange and have already started researching documentation, you've probably come across the term “certified translation”. This issue raises doubts because each country has its own documentary requirements, and it's not always clear when that specific translation is necessary.
The most direct answer is: not for all countries, but for the majority yes. Certified translation is mandatory in many popular exchange destinations, especially when it comes to official documents, academic documents, or visa processes. Let's understand the peculiarities of each destination.
What is a sworn translation?
Before we dive into the requirements by country, it's important to understand the concept. A certified translation is an official version of a foreign document, made by an approved public translator registered with a commercial register. This professional has public faith, meaning that their translation is legally valid before official bodies.
In the international context, this concept may vary. Some countries use terms such as “certified translation”, “official translation” or “notarized translation”, but the principle is the same: ensure that the translated document is legally valid in the destination country.
Germany: absolute rigor with documentation
Germany maintains one of the strictest systems when it comes to official documentation. To study or work in the country, a certified translation is mandatory for any official, academic or legal document.
The process must be carried out by a certified translator recognized in Germany or, in some specific cases, in Brazil. German universities, public bodies, and consulates may refuse documents that do not meet this requirement. As we highlighted in our guide on errors when applying for a student visa to Germany, inadequate documentation is one of the main causes of visa refusals.
For those who plan to study at German universities, it's worth checking out our article on How to write a motivation letter for a German university, which complements the documentation process.
Spain: European Bureaucratic Tradition
Similar to Germany, Spain requires certified translation for official, academic, and legal documents. The translator must be recognized by the Spanish or Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Diplomas, school transcripts, birth certificates, and criminal records require this translation to be legally valid. For those considering Study and Work in Spain, this documentation is essential in the student visa application process.
Ireland: flexibility with specific requirements
Ireland generally requires certified translation for documents submitted to official bodies, educational institutions, and visa processes. The translation must include the translator's full identification, signature, and registration number.
An important detail: in some cases, it may be necessary to apostille the translation through the The Hague Apostille. Our detailed guide to How to apply for a student visa for Ireland explains the entire documentary process step by step.
Australia: NAATI or sworn translation from Brazil
Australia has an interesting peculiarity. For documents sent from Brazil to Australian embassies or consulates, a certified Brazilian translation is accepted and meets the requirements.
However, if you are already in Australia and need to translate documents locally, the translator must be accredited by NAATI (National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters). For those planning an exchange in Australia, it is essential to understand these documentary nuances.
Canada: different concept, same result
Canada doesn't exactly work with the Brazilian concept of certified translation. The country requires “certified translations”, which can be done by officially recognized translators in Brazil or by certified translators in Canada.
For Brazilians submitting documents from Brazil, a certified translation is accepted and perfectly meets Canadian official translation requirements. This simplifies the process for those who are preparing for programs such as Public College in Canada.
New Zealand: strictness similar to the Australian
New Zealand maintains strict requirements, especially for visa processes and enrollment in educational institutions. A certified or certified translation is mandatory for most official documents.
Translations must be done by officially recognized translators, and certified translations made in Brazil are accepted when documents are sent from the country.
Malta: flexibility on a case-by-case basis
Malta offers greater flexibility, but certified translation may be required for student visas and specific official processes. The requirement depends on the type of document and the institution involved.
It is common to request a certified translation for school transcripts, diplomas, and certificates. We always recommend consulting the school or consulate before starting the translation process.
Dubai: complexity of the Arab world
The United Arab Emirates may require certified translation for academic documents, diplomas, and certificates. Often, the translation must be done into Arabic by a certified translator.
In addition, some documents need to be certified by the local Foreign Office. The process may take longer due to red tape, so it's essential to start early.
Practical tips for your documentation
1. Plan ahead The certified translation process can take a few weeks, especially during periods of high demand such as the beginning of the academic year.
2. Always confirm specific requirements Even within the same country, different institutions may have slightly different requirements. Always consult directly with the school, university, or consulate.
3. Consider the Hague Apostille For many European countries, in addition to the certified translation, it may be necessary to apostille the document. Our guide on The Hague Apostille explains this process in detail.
4. Keep original documents Always keep the originals in a safe place. You may need to present them at different points in the process.
5. Translate supplementary documents In addition to the main documents, consider translating income receipts, letters of recommendation, and other documents that may be requested.
Summary table by country
Avoid common pitfalls
Many exchange students make mistakes that could easily be avoided. Don't leave it to translate documents at the last minute, as this could jeopardize important deadlines. Some translators have busy schedules, especially during periods of high demand.
Another common mistake is to assume that a simple or notarized translation will be accepted. When a certified translation is required, other modalities are generally not accepted by official bodies.
It is also important to check whether the translator specializes in the academic or legal area, depending on your documents. Some translators have more experience with specific terminology.
Be Easy
Na Be Easy, we understand that documentation can be one of the most stressful parts of the exchange process. Our specialized team offers comprehensive guidance on all documentary requirements, including certified translations, apostilles, and country-specific procedures. We work with a network of trustworthy certified translators and follow every step of the process to ensure that your documentation is perfect. Contact us and let our specialists take care of all the bureaucratic details while you focus on planning your international experience!
