What is the Difference Between Sworn Translation and Notarized Translation?

The concepts of sworn translation and notarized translation are often confused. Understanding these two concepts correctly in official document processes prevents you from both requesting the correct service and paying extra fees unnecessarily. These two services are not alternatives to each other, but complementary stages; however, knowing which stage is sufficient for which situation is of great importance.

First, let's clarify the definitions: Sworn translation is a translation made by a translator who has been sworn in before a notary public or court and has gained legal status. Since the translator has sworn to the accuracy of his/her work, this translation carries legal weight in itself. Notarized translation, on the other hand, is the inclusion of the notary's approval that "this translation is a translation of the above document" on a translation made by a sworn or any translator; the notary here only approves the existence of the document, not the accuracy of the content.

The common model in practice in Turkey is as follows: First, the sworn translator translates and signs the document; then the notary approves this signature. In other words, looking at the process, both sworn translation and notary approval are present together. Most institutions request this full package: Sworn translator's signature + notary approval. For this reason, in practice, these two terms are used together, and the expression "sworn-notarized translation" is preferred.

Basic Differences Table

• Sworn translation: Based on the sworn status of the translator; guarantee of content accuracy lies with the translator
• Notarized translation: The notary's approval of the signature and the person; guarantee of content accuracy is not with the notary
• Sworn + notarized translation: Combines the two; highest legal validity
• Simple translation: No sworn or notary approval; invalid in official institutions
• Official institutions generally request the "sworn + notarized" combination

Which Institutions Request Which Type of Translation?

Turkish courts request sworn-notarized translation when submitting foreign language evidence or documents. The Directorate of Migration Management requires sworn translation for the documents submitted by foreign nationals in their applications. YÖK (Council of Higher Education) and the Ministry of National Education require sworn-notarized translation for equivalence applications. Consulates may request sworn translation and often an apostille for documents that Turkish citizens will submit abroad.

On the other hand, some institutions only require the sworn condition and do not seek notary approval; some private companies may even accept simple translation. Therefore, learning which institution your document will be submitted to and researching exactly what that institution requires prevents unnecessary extra expenses. As 42 Dil Translation Office, we have learned over the years what each institution needs and we will guide you correctly.

What is Certified Translation? The Difference Between Them

Some foreign institutions request "certified translation". Although this concept has a similar function to sworn translation in Turkey, it is not exactly the same. In certified translation, the translator adds a certificate document stating that the translation is an accurate translation of the original; however, the legal weight of this statement varies from country to country. Institutions in the USA and the UK generally require certified translation, while in Turkey this status is met by the oath of the sworn translator.

When a university or institution abroad requests "certified translation" from you, as 42 Dil Translation Office, we can prepare both sworn-notarized translation within the scope of Turkish law and certified translation in international standards. Tell us exactly what the addressee institution wants; let us offer you the most suitable format.

What is the Role of the Notary?

In Turkey, the notary public is an institution that performs public service and gives official status to legal documents. Its role in translation processes is as follows: It confirms the signature and identity of the sworn translator and affixes the notary seal and approval to the document. Thanks to this approval, the document gains validity before government agencies, courts and official authorities. It should be emphasized again that the notary does not audit the accuracy of the content, but only approves the signature and the sworn status of the translator.

42 Dil Translation Office manages the entire sworn translation process on your behalf. The document is translated, signed by the sworn translator, and then the notary approval is obtained by our office in person. You do not have to go to the notary in this process. After the entire process is completed, the notarized document is sent to your address by cargo or can be picked up in person at the office.

Conclusion: Which Translation Should You Prefer?

If you are going to submit a document to any official institution in Turkey, the safe and universal choice is sworn-notarized translation. This combination is accepted by all official authorities, including courts, notaries, ministries, universities and consulates. Only sworn translation without notary approval may be sufficient for private companies or informal transactions; however, it is always the healthiest way to ask the addressee institution directly about this issue.

42 Dil Translation Office offers sworn translation, notary approval and apostille processes completely under one roof. Send us your document; let our consultants determine which service is suitable for you and prepare a free quote. Speed, reliability and legal validity together, with 42 Dil assurance.