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CertiDocsThe practical guide

When does a sworn translation need legalisation in Belgium?

A sworn translation does not always need an extra legalisation. In Belgium, electronically signed sworn translations by a registered translator may be sufficient. For use abroad, a further legalisation step may still be required.

Understand the process
Editorial lead : CertiDocs Team4 sources

When is the sworn translation sufficient?

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For use in Belgium, a sworn translation signed in accordance with the Belgian system may be sufficient. Additional legalisation is therefore not automatic for every file.

Official sourceFPS Justice - Legalisation of sworn translations

When is extra legalisation needed?

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When the translation must be used abroad or in a context that explicitly requires it. The destination of the document therefore drives the answer more than the document itself.

Official sourceFPS Justice - Legalisation of sworn translations

What is the right practical logic?

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Check the destination of the document first, then the translator's status and finally any legalisation chain. Many people do the reverse and end up with a correct translation that is still not fully prepared for its destination.

Ask the recipient two questions

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First ask which formalities apply to the original record, then which apply to the translation. State where each was issued. An apostille on the original alone does not establish that all translation formalities are complete. Keep the written response for the quote and submission.

Official sourceFPS Justice - Required details, signatures and legalisation of translationsFPS Foreign Affairs - Prior authentication by the Belgian authority

Documents to prepare

  • Check whether the translation is destined for a Belgian or foreign authority
  • Check that the sworn translator is properly registered
  • Check whether an additional legalisation is required for the destination

Steps to follow

  1. Identify the destination

    Start by determining whether the translation is for use in Belgium or abroad.

  2. Verify the translator

    Make sure the sworn translator is properly registered within the Belgian system.

  3. Assess the legalisation chain

    Determine whether the destination requires an additional legalisation after the sworn translation.

  4. Finalise according to the country

    Only finalise the file once the formality adapted to the destination has been confirmed.

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Frequently asked questions

+Does a Belgian sworn translation always need legalisation?
No. For use in Belgium, that is not always necessary. The destination of the document is the main factor.
+Why is legalisation still mentioned for use abroad?
Because a destination country may still require an additional chain of formalities even after the sworn translation.
+Is verifying the translator enough?
No. That checks the author of the translation, but not yet the full set of formalities required for the final destination.
+Do the original document and the translation follow the same logic?
Not always. You need to check both the logic of the original and that of the translation for the chosen destination.
+Can unnecessary steps be avoided?
Yes, by starting from the real destination of the document instead of stacking formalities by reflex.

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 - Légalisation des traductions juréesOfficial sourceFPS Justice - Legalisation of sworn translationsOfficial sourceFPS Justice - Required details, signatures and legalisation of translationsOfficial sourceFPS Foreign Affairs - Prior authentication by the Belgian authority

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