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CertiDocsThe practical guide

Which language for a translation in Belgium?

The right language is one accepted for your specific procedure. Check the recipient, accepted languages and exemptions before ordering.

Understand the process
Last updated Editorial lead : Hiliyeh Bashir3 sources

French, Dutch, German or English?

Identify the office receiving the document and the procedure. English may be accepted for one application but not another. For example, the Belgian Embassy in the UAE accepts English for its visa files but requires a national language for the subsequent use in Belgium it describes. That consular instruction does not replace your own recipient’s requirements.

Official sourceBelgian Embassy in the UAE - Dates, languages and documents

Does NARIC need an English-language diploma translated?

NARIC-Vlaanderen’s guidelines do not require a sworn translation of a diploma written in Dutch, French, German, English or Afrikaans. For another language, they require a sworn translation into Dutch, French, German or English. Check transcript and other document requirements separately; another organisation may apply different rules.

Official sourceNARIC-Vlaanderen - Diploma languages and translation

Can a multilingual form be enough?

For certain public documents circulating between EU countries, a multilingual form accompanying the record may avoid translation. It does not replace the original. A certified translation may still be requested exceptionally if the content cannot be fully understood. Our advice: check this option before choosing a translation language and give the professional the confirmed requirements.

Official sourceYour Europe - Translation and authenticity of records

Documents to prepare

  • Receiving office and exact procedure
  • Accepted languages for each document
  • Possible exemption or multilingual form
  • Requirements supplied with the complete document

Steps to follow

  1. Identify the recipient

    Read the document list for the chosen procedure.

  2. Confirm the languages

    Ask whether the original language or a multilingual form is enough.

  3. Prepare the right version

    Then choose the required target language and translation format.

Budget

Prepare your translation request

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

CertiDocs confirms the price after checking the document, before payment. See all prices

Prepare my request

Frequently asked questions

+Can I choose French for every procedure in Belgium?
Do not assume so. Have the receiving office confirm the accepted language for this document.
+Is an English translation accepted everywhere?
No. Acceptance for a visa file or by NARIC does not automatically extend to a municipality or another procedure.
+Must I translate an English diploma for NARIC-Vlaanderen?
The diploma guidelines do not require this. Check the separate requirements for its attachments.
+Do I need translations into all three national languages?
Having three national languages does not by itself justify this. Order the versions your recipients actually require.

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 sourceBelgian Embassy in the UAE - Dates, languages and documentsOfficial sourceNARIC-Vlaanderen - Diploma languages and translationOfficial sourceYour Europe - Translation and authenticity of records

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