How to request a sworn translation: a step-by-step guide
First contact with the client
The process begins when you get in touch with our translation agency to request a translation service for one or more documents. You can do so through our online form, by email or by telephone, either via WhatsApp, or by calling us. At this stage it is important that you provide us with:
- A legible copy of the document to be translated.
- The source language and the target language.
- Your preferred delivery deadline.
Our project management team deals with the enquiry immediately and analyses the details we need in order to send you a tailored sworn translation quote based on the particular features of the document: language pair, urgent service, dispatch of hard copies or otherwise, and even the layout of the document. This is also a good moment to remind you that many documents need to be apostilled; you can read more here about sworn translation and the Apostille.
Analysis and assignment of the project
Once the quote has been accepted, the project is assigned to the right translator: a certified official translator, so that the document has the legal effect required in each case. In Spain it is usual to call on the sworn translators and interpreters officially appointed by the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs (you can consult the list of practising translators here). The sworn translator’s certification guarantees that the translation meets every legal requirement and is valid before any national or international body. The translator analyses the content of the document and identifies any specific needs, such as technical terminology or special formatting. We also make sure the deadline is met without compromising quality, and we are able to offer urgent translation services with turnaround times of under 24 hours. Thanks to our team of project managers and our extensive network of freelance collaborators, we can handle high-volume translation projects to tight deadlines, supported by technology that speeds the process up.
The translation process
The official translator makes sure that every word is faithful to the original document, which includes:
- A faithful, accurate translation of the content.
- The inclusion of the official stamps and certifications required.
- A thorough review to eliminate errors.
At ALOS we apply an additional quality control procedure before we consider the translation projectcomplete, something that as a translation agency even our freelance collaborators appreciate, because a single professional cannot always take on a certain volume of projects, afford certain tools or manage a translation into several languages. We work side by side with our freelance professionals so that we can liaise with the client and keep them informed at all times of how the translation is progressing, so that they can have confidence in every stage of the project and in its punctual delivery.
Validation and final format
The translated document goes through an internal validation process in which our team checks that all the legal requirements and formatting rules are respected. At this stage we also make sure that the stamps,, signatures and certifications are correctly placed, given that the competent authorities set out rules requiring certain formalitiesto be met. The sworn translation is delivered in the format requested by the client, whether physical, digital or both. Some public bodies and institutions still require hard copies of sworn translations, but the vast majority of procedures can now be completed with a digital sworn translation..
Final delivery to the client
Finally, the translated document is delivered to the client. We offer several delivery options::
- By email in PDF format.
- Collection in person at our office in Valencia.
- By courier to anywhere in the world.
We also remain available to answer any questions or make further adjustments according to the client’s needs. At our translation agency we work hard to make the translation of official documents fast, straightforward and reliable. If you need a sworn translation, contact our team and request a personalised quote . And remember that if you need to put your documents in the hands of expert translators, ALOS is the answer.
Frequently asked questions about sworn translation
What is a sworn translation?
A sworn translation is an official translation of documents carried out by a sworn translator authorised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or an equivalent body. This type of translation has legal validity and is usually required for official procedures.
How long does a sworn translation take?
The time needed for a sworn translation depends on the length and complexity of the document. Turnaround is normally between one and five working days. In urgent cases this can be reduced at an additional cost.
Which documents most commonly need a sworn translation?
The most common documents include birth certificates, academic qualifications, contracts, court records and powers of attorney, among others. Any document that needs legal validity in another language may require a sworn translation.
How do I request a sworn translation?
To request a sworn translation, simply send us a legible copy of your document as a PDF or an image. We will assess the document and send you a detailed quote and an estimated delivery date.
How much does a sworn translation cost?
The cost of a sworn translation depends on the language, the length of the document and its complexity. You can request a sworn translation quote with no obligation to find out the exact price of your project..