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CertiDocsThe practical guide

Criminal record for a municipality in Belgium

The criminal record that passes is not just translated. It is recent, well-chosen, intelligible and coherent with the local procedure that will read it.

Understand the process
Last updated Editorial lead : Hiliyeh Bashir5 sources

What is the municipality looking at?

The municipality does not treat a criminal record as a mere formality. It wants to read the recent version and the useful scope of the criminal record, then verify that the record fits the local file.

Where does the file get blocked?

On a version that is too short, an unclear date, a forgotten legalisation or a translation that skips the useful part.

Documents to prepare

  • Version of the criminal record the municipality can actually read
  • Identities and dates aligned with the rest of the file
  • Apostille or legalisation if free circulation is not enough
  • Sworn translation of the mentions the municipality must genuinely use
  • Local procedure angle or other record if the municipality also rereads the context

Steps to follow

  1. Choose the right record

    Use the criminal record the municipality can use without guessing.

  2. Check the local context

    Identify the precise use of the record in the municipal procedure.

  3. Authenticate and then translate

    Add the useful authentication chain before the sworn translation of the decisive entries.

  4. Submit with the rest of the file

    The municipality reads the record better when the context arrives at the same time.

Good to know

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Frequently asked questions

+Is a sworn translation of the criminal record enough?
No. It makes the record readable, but it does not replace the correct version or the correct municipal use.
+Will the municipality read the other surrounding records too?
Very often yes. It gladly rereads the context when the document does not speak on its own.
+Should the apostille come before the translation?
Yes if that step is required. Otherwise, you freeze an unfinished record.
+Does this page replace the municipality?
No. It helps prepare the file, not make the decision in its place.

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 - Declaration of nationalityOfficial sourceFPS Justice - NaturalisationOfficial sourceHCCH - Apostille ConventionOfficial sourceFPS Justice - National register of sworn translators and interpretersOfficial sourceFPS Justice - Legalisation of sworn translations

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