Official Document Translation & Legalisation Map
Interactive index of country-specific requirements for certified translations, sworn translations, apostilles, and consular legalization for official submissions worldwide.
Translation Standard
Document Requirements Directory
Select any highlighted country on the map or search using the box above to view its official translation and legalization standards.
Popular Countries
Browse All 38 Countries
Understanding Translation Standards
Official authorities around the world demand varying levels of translation certification to prevent fraud and ensure accuracy:
Sworn Translation (Traduction Assermentée)
Carried out by a translator who has taken an oath before a court or government body. Certified with their official stamp and registration number. Standard in: Spain, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands.
Certified Translation
Accompanied by a signed Certificate of Accuracy from a professional translator or agency. Standard in: USA (USCIS), UK, Canada (IRCC), Australia (NAATI).
Notarised Translation
A certified translation where a notary public verifies the translator's identity and stamps the Certificate of Accuracy. Often required for DMV or specific court submissions.
Document Legalisation & Authenticity
Translation only converts text. To prove that the original document itself is authentic, you may need government legalisation:
Apostille (Hague Convention): If both the country of origin and the destination country are members of the Hague Convention, a simplified government certificate (Apostille) is placed on the original document before translation.
Consular Legalisation: For non-member countries (e.g. UAE, China), documents require a multi-step chain authentication culminating in stamps from both the local Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the destination embassy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I check my target country's requirements?
1. Search for your destination country using the search bar above or click its territory on the interactive map.
2. Review the summary table showing the translation standard (Sworn, Certified, etc.) and legalization authority.
3. Read the detailed guides and click the official guidelines links to check authority portals.
Can I translate my own documents for official use?
Almost all official bodies (like USCIS in the US, IRCC in Canada, or courts in Europe) reject self-translated documents due to potential conflict of interest. Translations must be completed by an independent, qualified professional and certified accordingly.
Do I need an apostille before or after translating?
You must get the apostille (or consular legalization) on the original document before the translation. This is because the translation must cover the entire document, including the stamps, seals, and text of the apostille certificate itself.