Document translation

A sworn translation, also known as a certified translation, is the official form of document translation that holds legal power. Unlike a regular translation, which can be done by anyone, a sworn translation is prepared by a sworn translator, a person with special powers granted by the Minister of Justice. This translation is stamped with the translator’s seal, which contains their name, information about their function, and their number on the list of sworn translators. This seal and signature guarantee that the translation is a faithful reflection of the original document.

Who can perform sworn translations? 🎓

Only a sworn translator who has passed a state examination and has been entered on the list maintained by the Ministry of Justice has the right to perform sworn translations. Possession of the seal is crucial, as it authenticates the document. Without this seal, even if a translator is qualified, their translation will not have legal force.

When are sworn translations required? 📝

Sworn translations are necessary in many situations, especially when documents are to be used in official institutions. Most often, these include:

• Official documents: birth certificates, marriage certificates, death certificates, identity documents, criminal record certificates.

• Legal documents: court judgments, powers of attorney, notarial deeds.

• Educational documents: diplomas, school leaving certificates, diploma supplements.

• Company documents: excerpts from the National Court Register (KRS), company statutes, commercial powers of attorney.

Sworn translations and legalizing residence in Poland 🛂

In the context of legalizing residence in Poland, sworn translations are absolutely crucial. Voivodship Offices, the Border Guard, and other institutions dealing with foreigners’ matters require that specified documents prepared in a foreign language be presented along with a sworn translation into Polish. This mainly applies to:

• Applications for temporary, permanent, or long-term EU residence permits.

• Applications for a residence card.

• Documents confirming a stable and regular source of income.

• Civil status records, e.g., the birth certificate of a child born abroad, for the purpose of registering it in Poland.

• Documents confirming health insurance.

Without certified translations, these documents will not be considered valid by Polish authorities, which may result in the application being rejected or the procedure being significantly extended. A sworn translation is therefore an essential element in the process of legalizing residence.