The sworn translator's blog

The sworn translator's blog

Mis Traductores Jurados' Blog

Welcome to our blog on sworn translation. Here we will set out our vision of the sworn translation business. Mis Traductores Jurados is a team of experienced sworn translators, and these experiences will be the basis for the entries and opinions collected here.

Introduction

The activity of sworn translation arises from the need to transfer official documents from one language to another, by means of a person who is qualified to do so (as is the case with notaries).

In an increasingly globalised world, the need to communicate information from official documents in a way that is legally valid across languages and cultures has never been greater. Here, at the heart of this intersection, lies the role of the sworn translator.

Through this blog, Mis Traductores Jurados offers an insight into the intricate world of sworn translation, claiming its important role as a facilitator of official information.

What is a sworn translation?

But first of all... what is a sworn translation?

A sworn translation is a translation carried out by a sworn translator who is qualified for the language combination in question, using the techniques he or she has for this purpose.

What is not a sworn translation?

According to the above, a translation would not be sworn if it is not done by a sworn translator (even if the techniques dictated by the MAEC are used), or if it is done by a sworn translator who does not use the techniques dictated by the MAEC for this purpose and/or is not approved as such for the language combination in question.

In these cases, we would be talking about what is known as a simple (i.e. not sworn) translation. This is not to say that the simple translation is easy, it is just the name that has been attributed to it by mere convention.

And, in this sense, translation, whether simple or sworn, depending on the field of specialisation of the text, can be medical translation, legal translation, financial translation, etc., each with its own particularities.

What are the techniques dictated by the MAEC for a translation done by a sworn translator to be considered a sworn translation?

In order for a translation made by a sworn translator qualified for a specific language combination to be considered a sworn translation, the sworn translator must proceed as follows:

1. Add to the translation his/her stamp of sworn translator. 

2. Include a certification stating:

      2.1. the name and surname of the Sworn Translator,

      2.2. the language or languages for the translation of which he/she has been authorised by the MAEC, and

      2.3. his/her Sworn Translator identification number.

3. Sign the translation.

4. Attach a copy of the original document, stamped and dated on all pages.

What is a sworn translator and how important is his/her role?

Sworn Translators are professionals who have been awarded their respective qualifications by an official body (in the case of Spain, the MAEC) after passing the examinations or, where appropriate, accreditation of compliance with the requirements laid down in the regulations in force at any given time for obtaining the qualification through the recognition of professional qualifications, including the provisions of European Union law.

The crucial role of sworn translations in official documents

The sworn translator plays an essential role in making official documents legally recognised in different jurisdictions. Sworn translation is crucial to ensure the legal validity of documents such as birth certificates, university degrees, and business contracts when they have to be submitted to authorities in a country other than the country of origin. This form of translation goes beyond mere textual conversion from one language to another; it captures the legal and formal essence of the original document, while preserving its official validity.

Certificates and digital signatures in sworn translations

In today's digital age, authentication of translated documents by means of certificates and digital signatures has become an industry standard. This not only adds an additional layer of security and reliability to the translated documents, but also speeds up the legalisation process, allowing such documents to be accepted internationally more easily. This technological advance reflects how professionalisation and digitalisation are redefining the field of sworn translation.

Legal framework

What is the MAEC?

By MAEC we mean the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation, which is responsible for the awarding of Sworn Translator and Interpreter diplomas.

Regulations

Royal Decree 724/2020, of 4 August, approving the Regulations of the Language Interpretation Office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation.

Order AEC/2125/2014, of 6 November, which lays down rules on the examinations for obtaining the title of Sworn Translator-Interpreter (Official State Gazette 15/11/2014).

How do the regulations define the work of the sworn translator-interpreter?

The regulations of the MAEC, through the Language Interpretation Office (Oficina de Interpretación de Lenguas - OIL), stipulate the role and standards of a sworn translator-interpreter in Spain. This legal framework ensures that sworn translators are properly qualified to carry out their work with the utmost accuracy and professionalism.

What is the Language Interpretation Office?

The Language Interpretation Office is the highest body of the General State Administration in the field of language translation and interpretation. It belongs to the General Technical Secretariat of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation and is made up of civil servants belonging to the Corps of Translators and Interpreters.

Why trust MisTraductoresJurados?

MisTraductoresJurados.es stands out for its commitment to the quality of all the processes involved in the sworn translation activity. This includes factors such as cost and time, committing ourselves to an immediate response to customer requests and to delivery in the shortest possible time and at the lowest possible cost.

As a team of experienced sworn translators, we ensure that every translated document meets the requirements and every project exceeds our clients' expectations.

With a focus on customer satisfaction and continuous improvement, MisTraductoresJurados.es is undoubtedly a reliable choice for your sworn translation needs.