Becoming a Sworn Translator: A Real Commitment
A Sworn translator is regularly called upon by judicial authorities and government agencies to translate official documents. To become certified and work as a sworn translator, candidates must apply through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which selects applicants based on their experience and motivation.
In today’s world shaped by migration and globalization, contractual relationships increasingly span across borders. This internationalization of social, civil, and economic life has led to a growing overlap between legal systems. Legal translation plays a key role in this context, facilitating the exchange of information, goods, and services. Although this field remains relatively unknown to the general public, it deserves to be better understood, especially since many of us may need a sworn translation at some point in our lives.
What Is a Sworn Translation?
A certified or sworn translation can only be done by a translator who has officially taken an oath before a court. Once sworn in, the translator receives a stamp or seal from the court, which they must affix to each translated document.
Along with the translator’s signature and the phrase “Seen, not to be altered,” this stamp makes the translation legally valid in the eyes of national courts and administrative bodies.
This type of translation must mirror the formatting of the original document. It must also clearly indicate that it is a translation, specify the source language, and follow strict formatting rules: each page must be numbered and initialed, and the final page must include a statement marking the end of the document to prevent any unauthorized additions.
Except for certain civil status documents (which can change over time), sworn translations do not have an expiration date.
The Profile of a Sworn Translator
Sworn translator, officially recognized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, work with courts and various administrative and legal institutions. They translate official documents such as judgments, wills, notarial deeds, birth and death certificates, and urban planning notices.
Whether working freelance or within a translation agency, a sworn translator acts as a legal expert, their stamp and signature validate the accuracy and authenticity of each translation.
In France, no specific diploma is required to become a sworn translator. However, applicants must be of legal age and have no criminal record. Applications (including a CV and cover letter) must be submitted to the public prosecutor and filed with the High Court of the city where the applicant resides.
Deadline to apply: March 1st each year.
After the application is reviewed, candidates are summoned for an interview at the nearest police station to verify their personal information. If everything is in order, a specific procedure follows through the Court of Appeal, which includes:
- Aptitude Exam: Candidates must demonstrate their language skills and ability to translate documents accurately.
- Swearing-In Ceremony: Upon passing the exam, candidates take an official oath before the Court of Appeal. This grants them the right to work as sworn translators within that jurisdiction.
- Registration: If the Court’s General Assembly gives a favorable opinion, the translator’s name is added to the official list of sworn translators and the national directory of certified translators.
From that point on, they are authorized to translate legal and official documents in the language combinations for which they were sworn in.