Document Translation Requirements in Belgium
Official bodies in Belgium generally require a sworn translation of foreign-language documents, and many documents also need an apostille or legalization before they are translated. Below: who can translate, when an apostille is needed, and where the official rules are published.
Belgium requirements at a glance
| Translation standard | Sworn translation |
|---|---|
| Who can translate | Translator registered in the National Register of Sworn Translators and Interpreters |
| Apostille | Required if the sworn translation will be used abroad |
| Accepted languages | Dutch, French, or German (depending on jurisdiction) |
| Responsible authority | FPS Foreign Affairs (Federal Public Service Foreign Affairs) |
Who can translate documents for use in Belgium?
What makes a translation official in Belgium?
How does Belgium treat documents from abroad?
Legal basis
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Belgian birth certificates, diplomas, and transcripts submitted to USCIS, universities, or credential evaluators need a certified English translation — that is exactly what we do, with a 100% USCIS acceptance guarantee.
Sending U.S. documents to Belgium?
U.S.-issued documents usually need an apostille before they can be used in Belgium — and the apostille should be obtained before the translation, so the certificate itself gets translated too. We offer e-apostille processing as an add-on to any order.
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Belgium translation requirements — FAQ
What type of translation does Belgium require?
Belgium follows the sworn translation standard for official documents. Translations should be completed by: translator registered in the national register of sworn translators and interpreters.
Is an apostille required for foreign documents in Belgium?
Required if the sworn translation will be used abroad
What languages do Belgian authorities accept?
Official authorities in Belgium accept documents in: Dutch, French, or German (depending on jurisdiction). Documents in any other language need a sworn translation before submission.
Can CertTranslate help with documents for Belgium?
If you are submitting Belgian documents to U.S. authorities (USCIS, universities, credential evaluators), yes — our certified translations are accepted nationwide. For official use inside Belgium, authorities usually require a translator sworn or registered locally — use the official registry linked on this page. We can also advise on apostille requirements for U.S.-issued documents.
Requirements in related countries
Neighbors and countries with a similar translation standard.
Sources
- Belgian Federal Public Service Justice – Sworn TranslatorsOfficial guidelines
- National Register of Sworn Translators and Interpreters (Belgium)Official registry
Information verified against official sources. Last verified June 2026.
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