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CertiDocsThe practical guide

Criminal record: the date and wording the authority checks

In a nationality file, the criminal record is not merely a moral checkbox. It is a record of fine reading: authority, date, identity and exact wording all matter.

Understand the process
Editorial lead : CertiDocs Team6 sources

Why does this record matter so much?

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When preparing the criminal record for Belgian nationality, we recommend checking: the issuing authority, the freshness of the record, the exact identity and the legal scope of the entries. Compare these details with the other records and flag differences to the recipient. This check does not replace their official list.

What should you check before translation?

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The trap is a record that is too old, issued by the wrong body or translated with wording that blurs its real legal scope. If the basis is wrong, translation only moves the problem around.

How do you place it in the right sequence?

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Confirm the version of the criminal record and the supporting records: Passport, birth certificate and other nationality records if the municipality rereads the whole identity trail at the same time. Distinguish formalities for the original from those for its translation. Include an apostille or legalisation in the material sent to the translator if it needs translation. Do not omit pages without the recipient’s confirmation.

Official sourceFPS Foreign Affairs - Legalisation and apostille of documentsFPS Justice - Legalisation of sworn translations

Documents to prepare

  • Usable official version of the criminal record
  • Identities, dates, references and spellings reviewed before translation
  • Apostille or legalisation if the procedure or the origin of the record requires it
  • Translation scope confirmed by the recipient, including annexes
  • Passport, birth certificate and other nationality records if the municipality rereads the whole identity trail at the same time.

Steps to follow

  1. Choose the right source version

    Start from the version of the criminal record the Belgian authority truly needs to read.

  2. Align the surrounding records

    Review identities, dates, references and connected records before the translation starts.

  3. Confirm formalities and their order

    Check exemptions, then confirm formalities for the original and translation with the recipient.

  4. File through the correct route

    Then file the criminal record with the records that make the procedure readable from start to finish.

Good to know

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Frequently asked questions

+Is a sworn translation always required for a criminal record for Belgian nationality?
Not always. Check the accepted language, exemptions and required format with the recipient before ordering a sworn translation.
+Do the annexes also need translation?
Have the recipient confirm the scope. Do not remove an annex yourself because it seems repetitive; supply the full document to the professional for assessment.
+Do I need the apostille or legalisation before translation?
The order depends on what must be authenticated: the original, a copy or the translator’s signature. Check exemptions and confirm the formalities for each document before ordering.
+Can translation fix an inconsistent file?
No. A good translation makes a record readable; it does not erase a wrong document, a wrong sequence or a shaky identity trail.

Official source

Official sources used

The references below are the public sources used to document this page. The competent authority always retains the final decision.

Official sourceFPS Justice - NaturalisationOfficial sourceFPS Justice - Declaration of nationalityOfficial sourceIBZ - Proof of family relationship or partnershipOfficial sourceFPS Justice - National register of sworn translators and interpretersOfficial sourceFPS Foreign Affairs - Legalisation and apostille of documentsOfficial sourceFPS Justice - Legalisation of sworn translations

CertiDocs analysis: CertiDocs explains the process and helps connect users with a professional. CertiDocs is not a public service and is not affiliated with any authority.