Are you preparing to move abroad, apply for a visa, get married abroad or apply for naturalisation? In all these situations, it is very likely that the authorities will ask you for a sworn translation your official documents.
But which documents are concerned, and more importantly, who to call for a legally valid translation? Here's a clear, practical guide.
🔎 Why do some documents need to be officially translated?
As soon as a document is intended for a foreign authority or a French administrationIt must be understood and recognised as equivalent to the original. This is why a certified translationby a sworn translator is required. It guarantees the accuracy, completeness and legal validity of the translated version.
📄 Main documents to be translated
Depending on your situation, the documents to be translated may vary. Here are the most frequently requested.
1. Civil status documents
Essential for most personal and administrative tasks.
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Birth certificate
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Marriage or divorce certificate
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Death certificate
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Family record book
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Identity card or passport
👉 Need a birth certificate translated? Tradyx can help you quickly.
2. School or professional diplomas and certificates
Essential if you are applying to a foreign university or promoting your career abroad.
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Diplomas
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Transcripts
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Training certificates
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Work certificates
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Letters of recommendation
🎓 Read also : How to make a certified translation of a diploma
3. Legal documents
Required for your official, legal or notarial procedures.
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Judgements
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Contracts
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Proxies
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Extract from criminal record
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Notarial deeds
📘 To consult : Legal or sworn translation: what's the difference?
4. Financial and tax documents
Often requested to prove your solvency to a consulate, landlord or bank.
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Bank statements
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Salary slips
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Tax returns
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Proof of income
5. Medical documents
Requested in particular for studies, treatment abroad or immigration purposes.
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Medical reports
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Vaccination booklets
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Orders
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Health insurance certificates
📌 When is a sworn translation required?
It is indispensable if you present :
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a document foreign a French administration (prefecture, notary, university, court, etc.);
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a document French to a foreign authority.
⚖️ Only a translation carried out by a sworn translatorregistered with a court of appeal, is legally admissible.
👉 Find out more about the role of a sworn translator
🛠️ Where can you get your official documents translated?
Here are the most reliable options:
✔️ Using an independent sworn translator
This is the most direct and safest solution.
At Tradyxwe provide sworn translations in English, French and ItalianThese are fully compliant with the requirements of French and international authorities.
✔️ Using a specialist agency
Some agencies offer this service, but beware: costs are often higher and lead times can be longer.
👉 You can also consult the official list of sworn translators on the Cour de cassation website.
⚠️ Common mistakes to avoid
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❌ Never entrust an official translation to a non-sworn translator
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❌ Do not use automatic translation tools (not legally valid)
✅ Good practices before sending your documents
To save time and ensure rapid processing:
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Check that your documents are legible, complete and well scanned
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Find out more about required format (signed and stamped PDF or paper version)
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Anticipate: a period of 2 to 5 working days is often necessary
