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Sworn translation refused in Belgium

Identify the refusal reason: source document, language, required details, signature or requested format. Check the issue before ordering a new translation.

Understand the process
Last updated Editorial lead : Hiliyeh Bashir4 sources

What exactly does the refusal say?

Ask which element prevents submission: language, source document, required details, signature or format. Keep the refusal message and the version actually submitted. Our practical advice: clarify the problem before ordering a new translation; retranslating the same file may not solve an issue with the source document.

Official sourceFPS Justice - Legalisation of sworn translations

What should you check on the translation?

Under the ordinary Belgian procedure, compare the name and VTI with the register, including authorised languages. Check the closing details, signatures and required digital or paper version too. FPS Justice provides a legalisation procedure, including when the professional cannot sign electronically. The VTI number alone does not replace these checks.

Official sourceFPS Justice - National register of sworn translators and interpretersFPS Justice - Legalisation of sworn translations

How should you prepare the replacement?

Send the reason and documents to the professional, then clarify the specific correction and any cost. Keep the old version and request a newly signed file if the content changes. For use abroad, confirm applicable legalisation formalities separately. A replacement document alone does not guarantee acceptance of the application.

Official sourceFPS Justice - Legalisation of sworn translations

Documents to prepare

  • Exact refusal reason and recipient’s instructions
  • Complete source document and submitted translation
  • Identity, VTI, languages and signatures to check
  • Correction, delivery format and any cost clarified

Steps to follow

  1. Obtain the reason

    Ask which specific point needs correcting for this submission.

  2. Have the documents checked

    Review the refusal, source and translation with the professional.

  3. Receive the appropriate version

    Check corrections and format before resubmitting.

Budget

Prepare your translation request

Enter the number of pages, then add your document in the request form.

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Frequently asked questions

+Why was it rejected if the VTI number is present?
The number identifies the professional. Check their registered languages, required details, signatures and requested documents too. Ask the recipient exactly what is missing.
+Should I order a new translation immediately?
First obtain the precise refusal reason and send it to the translator with the submitted file. Clarify the required correction and any cost before placing another order.
+Can I correct the signed PDF myself?
Keep the received version and report the error to the professional. Ask for a corrected, signed version; editing the PDF yourself may compromise signature verification.
+When should I contact the FPS Justice national register?
FPS Justice explains how to report an irregularity in a sworn translation’s legalisation. For an application’s refusal reason or required documents, first contact the authority that rejected the submission.

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 - National register of sworn translators and interpretersOfficial sourceFPS Justice - Legalisation of sworn translationsOfficial sourcee-Justice portal - Public documents in the EUOfficial sourceHCCH - Apostille Convention

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.