FAQ: Sworn Translations in Colombia
A sworn translation is a certified translation carried out by a translator who is officially authorized by a governmental authority. In Colombia, these translations are legally recognized and used for official purposes, such as legal, administrative, and governmental processes. The sworn translator affirms the accuracy and completeness of the translation with a formal statement and their official seal.
In Colombia, sworn translations can only be performed by official translators who have been authorized and accredited by the Ministry of Justice, and in recent years by the Universidad Nacional. These translators hold a license and are registered before the relevant authorities. Their qualifications ensure that the translations meet the required legal standards and are accepted by various authorities.
Common documents that require sworn translation include:
- Legal contracts
- Birth and marriage certificates
- Academic transcripts and diplomas
- Powers of attorney
- Notarial deeds
- Immigration documents
- Court judgments
- Business and financial documents
Essentially, any document intended for legal or official use in Colombia that is originally in a foreign language requires a sworn translation.
To request a sworn translation, follow these steps:
- Find an Accredited Sworn Translator: Ensure the translator is licensed by the Colombian Ministry of Justice. You can verify their credentials through the Ministry’s official website or through professional associations.
- Submit Your Documents: Provide the original documents that need translation along with any specific instructions or context that might assist in accurate translation.
- Receive the Translation: The translator will complete the sworn translation and provide you with a certified document. This document will include the translator’s seal and signature, confirming its authenticity and accuracy.
- Notarization (if required): Some documents may also need to be notarized after translation, depending on their intended use.
The time required for a sworn translation depends on the length and complexity of the document. On average, it may take from a few days to a couple of weeks. It is advisable to discuss timelines with your translator beforehand to ensure that your needs are met within the required timeframe.
Sworn translations are primarily valid within Colombia. However, if you need to use the translated documents in another country, you may need to get them further legalized or apostilled according to the regulations of that country. This additional step ensures that the translation is accepted internationally.
The cost of a sworn translation varies based on factors such as the length of the document, complexity, and the translator’s rates. It is best to request a quote from the translator before starting the project. Some translators may charge per page or per word.
If you find an error in a sworn translation, contact the translator immediately. Since sworn translators are responsible for the accuracy of their translations, they should correct any errors at no additional cost. It’s important to address issues promptly to avoid complications with official processes.
Yes, sworn translations can be done for digital documents. Ensure that the digital documents are properly formatted and legible. The translator will provide the sworn translation in a format that meets official requirements, which may include a physical copy with a seal or an electronic version with digital verification, depending on the specific needs.
To verify the authenticity of a sworn translation, you can:
- Check the Translator’s Credentials: Ensure the translator is licensed by the Ministry of Justice. Contact the Ministry if necessary.
- Review the Translation: Confirm that the translation includes the translator’s official seal and signature.
- Contact Relevant Authorities: For additional verification, you can reach out to the authority or organization requesting the translation to confirm its acceptance.
For further assistance or specific inquiries regarding sworn translations, consult with a licensed sworn translator or legal advisor familiar with the requirements in Colombia.