You are putting together your immigration file when an important question comes up: your criminal record certificate is in another language. Do you have to translate it? What happens if you submit it as it is? This is one of the most common errors in immigration procedures in Spain and it can cause delays, requests for correction or even problems with your application. In this article you will see what happens in this situation and how to avoid errors from the outset.
Is it compulsory to translate the criminal record certificate?
In most immigration procedures in Spain, yes. When an official document is issued in another language, it normally has to be submitted translated into Spanish so that the authorities can review and accept it properly.
This routinely affects processes such as residence applications, Spanish citizenship, long-stay visas or arraigo files. If the certificate is submitted untranslated, the file will usually be unable to move forward normally.
What happens if you submit the certificate untranslated?
The most common consequence is that the authorities issue a formal request for you to provide properly translated documents within a set deadline.
That can cause you several problems.
Delays to the file
The procedure is halted until you provide a valid translation. In immigration matters, where many procedures already run on tight timescales, this kind of error can cost you weeks.
Risk of the file being shelved or refused
If you do not put the error right in time, the application may be shelved or refused for lack of valid documents.
More pressure from deadlines and appointments
When getting an appointment is already difficult, having to correct badly submitted documents can force you to redo part of the process.
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What type of translation do you need?
This is where many people go wrong. Translating the document any old way is not enough. In official procedures, you will usually be asked for a sworn translation.
What is a sworn translation?
It is an official translation produced by an authorised sworn translator. It has legal validity before public bodies and authorities, which is why it is usually the option required when you submit certificates, qualifications or criminal record documents.
If you want to understand better when this type of service is required, you can turn to the ALOS content on what a professional translation agency offers, which explains why a valid, specialist translation matters for sensitive documents.
Common mistakes when submitting this document
In practice, these are some of the most frequent errors.
Submitting it in English without a translation
Many people assume that, as it is such a widely known language, it can be accepted as it stands. But the Spanish authorities do not usually admit official documents in another language without the corresponding translation.
Providing a non-sworn translation
A translation done by an acquaintance, by a non-accredited academy or with automatic tools has no official validity in this kind of procedure.
Translating only part of the document
If stamps, notes, annotations or relevant sections are missing, the documents may be considered incomplete.
When should you have the certificate translated?
The best time is before you submit the application. Waiting until you are asked usually means losing time and leaving more room for errors.
Preparing your documents properly from the start helps you speed up the file, reduce problems and submit a stronger application. What is more, if you are going to work with legal or sensitive documents, choosing the right provider matters. In that respect, you may also find the ALOS article on how to choose a translation agency in Valenciauseful, especially if you are looking for a professional service that understands the legal and administrative context of the document.
Who can produce the translation?
For it to have official validity, the translation must be produced by a professional authorised to do so. Not just any translator or general service will do.
Before you commission the work, check that the provider handles official translation, delivers the complete document and follows the format required for administrative procedures. This is particularly important when you are submitting certificates that can directly affect the outcome of your file.
How to avoid immigration problems for this reason
The best way to avoid problems is to review all your documents before submitting them. Not only the criminal record certificate, but also any other personal or academic documents that may form part of the file.
It is also worth confirming whether the procedure requires a sworn translation, whether the document needs legalisation or an apostille and whether the certificate has a validity period. A small oversight on any of these points can bring the whole process to a halt.
Frequently asked questions
That is not advisable. Even though it is a widely known language, official procedures usually require a translation into Spanish for the document to be fully valid administratively.
In immigration procedures and for official documents, very often yes. It depends on the specific procedure, but for criminal record certificates it is usually the option required.
No, not if the procedure requires an official translation. In that case you need a sworn translation produced by an authorised professional.
Submitting an untranslated criminal record certificate can delay your file and complicate a procedure that already demands precision. Preparing your documents correctly from the start is the best way to avoid requests for correction and move forward with more confidence.
If you need support with official documents, translations for immigration procedures or specialist language services, at ALOS you will find a professional team to help you submit your documents with greater peace of mind.