CertiDocsThe practical guide
Legal framework for sworn translators in Belgium
The title, registration, authorised languages and form of the translation follow separate rules. Here is what FPS Justice says before you open its official services.
Understand the processInitial legal knowledge certificate or continuing education?
Link to this sectionFor registration, the legal knowledge certificate records a successful test following training approved by the Minister of Justice. Exemptions are assessed individually using supporting evidence. Do not confuse this initial certificate with attendance certificates for continuing education at renewal.
Renewal and continuing education
Link to this sectionThe Decree of 15 July 2026 took effect on 29 August 2026. For renewal, sworn translators and interpreters prepare a CV, activity report, civil and administrative assignment list, training list and evidence of at least 60 hours over six years. Submit no later than six months before registration expires. A reasoned derogation may be considered; it is not automatic. The renewal guide linked below explains the evidence.
Initial registration: documents to prepare
Link to this sectionPrepare PDFs for Just-on-web: CV, both sides of your identity document or European residence evidence, legal knowledge certificate and language competence evidence appropriate to your background (diplomas, recognised tests, two years’ relevant experience in eight). Add an identity photo to your citizen profile. Filing alone does not confer the title.
Who may use the title of sworn translator?
Link to this sectionFPS Justice states that registration in the National Register is mandatory to use the title and practise. An off-register appointment remains possible only within the strict framework of an assignment from a judicial authority under Article 555/15 of the Judicial Code; it is not a general route around registration.
What the National Register lets you check
Link to this sectionThe public register is used to check the person, their role and the languages for which they are registered. A name in an advert, a photographed stamp or a simple claim does not replace checking the source.
Signature, wording and form of the translation
Link to this sectionFPS Justice requires closing statements on a sworn translation. Under the current Belgian system, the sworn translator's electronic signature has replaced the former physical official stamp since December 2022. The document should therefore be checked as a whole, not merely by looking for a visual symbol.
- For paper use, the translator prints the electronically sealed translation and adds a handwritten signature. Where electronic signing is unavailable, FPS Justice provides a legalisation procedure. These rules date from 2022; they are not new 2026 obligations.
Registration and legalisation answer different questions
Link to this sectionThe register confirms the translator's official status and languages. Legalisation or an apostille concerns how the document will be used, especially abroad. The country, document type and receiving authority determine the relevant formality.
Documents to prepare
- Translator name or VTI number
- Registered role and languages
- Destination country and receiving authority
Steps to follow
Identify the person
Ask for the full name or VTI number used for the assignment.
Open the official register
Use the FPS Justice link shown in the official sources on this page.
Compare the role and languages
Check that the registration actually matches the requested translation or interpreting assignment.
Check the destination
Ask the receiving authority whether legalisation, an apostille or another format is still required.
Good to know
Guides
On the same topic
Other steps to prepare. Apostille, legalisation and foreign documents.
Sworn translators and interpreters: renewing registration
Prepare renewal, 60 hours over six years and supporting evidence.
Court expenses: JustInvoice, evidence and Peppol
Connect the requisition, approval, JustInvoice and Peppol invoice.
Sworn PDF translation: electronic signature or a scan?
Check a signed PDF and prepare the required digital or paper version.
For your application
Related documents
Common translations
Budget
Prepare your translation request
Choose the document type in the form to see your fixed price.
One fixed price per complete document, regardless of page count. Confirm the price before submitting. See all prices
Frequently asked questions
+−Is the register managed by FPS Economy?
+−Does a stamp prove that a translation is sworn?
+−May a sworn translator work in every language?
+−Does registration always remove the need for legalisation?
+−Is CertiDocs the official register?
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.
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.