For someone new to the world of translation, it’s easy to get lost in the terminology and processes. Two commonly referenced types of translation are sworn translation and certified translation. At first glance, these terms may seem interchangeable, but they hold important differences that are worth understanding—especially for those considering translation services. In this guide, we’ll break down what each term means and highlight the key distinctions between the two.
What is a sworn translation, and when is it required?
In Brazil, sworn translations are performed by public translators who are officially authorized by the government. These professionals must pass specific exams to become sworn translators and are entrusted with translating official documents—such as contracts, marriage certificates, diplomas, and birth certificates—while ensuring their legal validity in the eyes of Brazilian authorities. Each sworn translation is accompanied by a declaration, signed and stamped by the sworn translator, to guarantee its authenticity.
What sets certified translation apart from sworn translation?
A certified translation in the U.S., often provided by professionals certified by the American Translators Association (ATA), ensures both accuracy and fluency in the target language. While sworn translations focus on legal validation, certified translations emphasize the translator’s proficiency in both the source and target languages. ATA-certified translators have passed a rigorous exam and adhere to a code of ethics, ensuring that their work is precise and suitable for its intended purpose.
How do I choose between certified and sworn translations?
The choice between sworn or certified translation depends on your specific needs and how the documents will be used. If your translation is required for legal purposes in Brazil—such as for business transactions, immigration procedures, or academic records—a sworn translation is the best option. Sworn translations ensure legal validity in Brazil.
On the other hand, if you’re seeking a high-quality translation for use internationally in sectors like business, marketing, law, or medicine, an ATA-certified translation guarantees linguistic competence and professionalism.
In summary, ATA-certified translations are known for their accuracy and excellence on a global scale, while sworn translations are specifically geared toward legal matters within Brazil. You can select the translation service that best meets your needs by understanding the differences.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR – TATIANE BERTONI
Tatiane Bertoni is a member of ATA as a qualified translator certified by ITI in the United Kingdom and ABRATES in Brazil. She holds a degree in Language Studies – Translation and Interpreting and a Master of Science degree in Scientific, Technical, and Medical Translation with Translation Technology from UCL. Tati provides both simple and certified translations in English, Portuguese, and Italian.
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