Certified vs. Sworn Translation: Which One Do You Need?
Quick answer: A certified translation is the standard for U.S. use, including USCIS, U.S. courts, and schools. It includes a signed statement that the translation is complete and accurate. A sworn translation is often required when your document goes to a foreign government, consulate, court, or university. It must be done by a translator officially authorized by the destination country. The country receiving your document decides which one you need. South Beach Apostille Translation & Notary helps you identify the right standard and coordinates both.
Ordering the wrong type of translation is one of the most common reasons international paperwork gets sent back. This guide explains the difference, who asks for each one, and how to get it right the first time.
What is a certified translation?
A certified translation is a complete translation accompanied by a signed statement confirming that it is complete and accurate. It's the format most commonly used in the United States, for example for:
- USCIS immigration filings
- U.S. court documents
- School and university admissions
USCIS generally requires certified English translations, not sworn translations. Learn more about our certified translations in Miami.
What is a sworn translation?
A sworn translation is completed by a translator who is authorized, sworn, or appointed by a court, ministry, or government authority in a specific country. Many countries, especially those with civil law systems, accept only translations from translators authorized under their own legal system.
Sworn translations are commonly associated with countries such as France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Brazil, Colombia, Peru, and Portugal. Not every country accepts certified translations, so the destination always comes first.
Certified vs. sworn: side by side
| Certified translation | Sworn translation | |
|---|---|---|
| Where it's used | Mainly in the U.S. | Mainly abroad |
| Who translates | A professional translator who signs a statement of accuracy | A translator authorized by the destination country |
| Common receivers | USCIS, U.S. courts, schools | Foreign governments, consulates, civil registries, ministries, courts, universities |
| Who decides | The receiving U.S. agency | The destination country and receiving authority |
When you'll likely need a sworn translation
- Dual citizenship applications
- Registering a marriage abroad
- Buying property in another country
- Residency permits and non-U.S. immigration
- Overseas court proceedings
- University enrollment abroad
- Corporate registration in another country
Documents that often need a sworn translation include birth, marriage, divorce, and death records; powers of attorney and court judgments; diplomas and transcripts; corporate records; and FBI background checks.
Do sworn translations need an apostille?
Sometimes. It depends on the country, the document type, and whether the original, the translation, or both must be apostilled. Some destinations also require notarization, embassy or consular legalization, or certified copies.
Getting the order wrong can mean starting over, which is why we review the full requirement before anything is translated. Learn more about our apostille services and How to Get an Apostille in Miami.
How our process works
- Send a clear copy of your document.
- Tell us the destination country. It's the most important detail.
- We review what's required: certified translation, sworn translation, apostille, notarization, or more.
- We coordinate with an authorized translator for that country and document type.
- You receive your translation in the required format, with guidance on any apostille, notary, or delivery steps.
We serve clients sending documents to Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, including Colombia, Brazil, Argentina, Peru, Mexico, Spain, Portugal, Italy, France, and Germany. See the full list on our international sworn translation page.
Frequently asked questions
Does USCIS accept sworn translations?
USCIS generally requires certified English translations. A sworn translation isn't usually what USCIS asks for.
How do I know which translation I need?
Ask the authority that will receive your document, or send us the document type, destination country, and receiving agency. We'll help you confirm the standard before you order.
Can a sworn translation be apostilled?
Sometimes. It depends on the country, the document type, and whether the original or the translation must be apostilled.
Can you translate my FBI background check for use abroad?
Yes. FBI background checks are a common document for sworn translation, often together with an apostille. See How to Get an FBI Background Check Apostilled.
How much does a sworn translation cost?
It depends on the document, language, and destination country. Request a quote or call (786) 970-0450.
Sending documents abroad?
Request a quote · See our international sworn translation services · Call (786) 970-0450
South Beach Apostille, Translation & Notary is a private service provider and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or an agent of any government agency. Requirements vary by country and receiving authority.
Related: Certified Translations in Miami · Apostille vs. Notarization · How Long Does an Apostille Take in Florida?
Related service: Certified Translations
